The Africa Cup of Nations 2027 will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

This historic edition marks the first time the tournament will be held across three countries.

It also represents the first time since 1976 that AFCON will be staged by nations from the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (Cecafa).

This joint hosting marks a significant milestone for East African football and for the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (Cecafa).

It has been over 50 years since a Cecafa nation last hosted AFCON, with the previous occasion in 1976.

Why Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania Were Chosen

CAF’s decision to award the hosting rights to these three East African nations was based on several key factors:

 Regional Development

By selecting Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, CAF promotes football growth in East Africa and encourages investment in sporting infrastructure.

 Joint Hosting Feasibility

The three countries collaborated to present a unified bid, highlighting existing stadiums, transportation networks, and government support.

Strategic CAF Objectives

CAF aims to rotate the tournament across underrepresented regions, and this selection aligns with efforts to expand football’s reach across Africa.

 Fan Engagement

East Africa has a passionate football fan base, ensuring vibrant stadium atmospheres and high levels of support.

Historical Significance of AFCON 2027 in East Africa

AFCON 2027 will be historic for multiple reasons:

• First joint hosting by three countries in Africa.

• First AFCON hosted by Cecafa nations since 1976.

• Opportunity to showcase East African football and culture on a global stage.

• Boosts regional cooperation in sports and tourism.

This milestone will elevate football in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, inspiring future generations of players and fans.

Proposed Tournament Dates

While exact dates are yet to be officially confirmed by CAF, AFCON traditionally lasts about one month. Early projections suggest:

• Start: Late December 2026 or early January 2027

• End: Late January 2027

These dates accommodate the schedules of African players in European clubs, maximizing participation while avoiding conflicts with domestic leagues.

Host Cities and Stadiums

Each of the three co-hosting countries has proposed major stadiums to accommodate group-stage, knockout, and final matches.

Kenya

• Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani (Nairobi): Likely to host the opening match and key group games.

• Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi: Secondary venue for group fixtures.

Uganda

• Nelson Mandela National Stadium (Kampala): Primary venue for Uganda’s group matches and potential knockout games.

• Kampala Regional Stadiums: Additional venues for group matches.

Tanzania

• Benjamin Mkapa Stadium (Dar es Salaam): Likely host of key group and knockout matches.

• Abeid Amani Karume Stadium (Zanzibar): Potential group-stage venue.

CAF requires all stadiums to meet international standards for pitch quality, seating, lighting, and safety.

Joint hosting will also necessitate excellent transportation, accommodation, and logistical coordination across the three countries.

Economic and Social Impact

AFCON 2027 will create opportunities and benefits for all three host nations:

Tourism and Hospitality

Fans from across Africa and the diaspora will travel to Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, boosting hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.

 Infrastructure Development

Stadium renovations, improved airports, roads, and public transport systems will benefit local communities long-term.

 Regional Cooperation

Joint hosting strengthens collaboration between the three nations in sports management, security, and logistics.

 Youth Development

AFCON 2027 will inspire young footballers, improve youth academies, and elevate grassroots programs in East Africa.

Preparing National Teams for AFCON 2027

National teams from across Africa will use the months leading to the tournament for preparation:

• Training Camps: Teams will conduct intensive pre-tournament training.

• Friendly Matches: Competitive fixtures against other African nations to build form.

• Squad Selection: Coaches will finalize squads in alignment with CAF regulations.

• Travel Planning: Coordinated logistics for cross-border matches in three host countries.

Fan Engagement During AFCON 2027

Fans can look forward to:

• Vibrant matchday atmospheres fueled by passionate East African supporters.

• Cultural experiences including music, dance, and local cuisine.

• Fan zones for public viewing and entertainment across host cities.

• Media coverage globally, with live matches broadcast in multiple languages.

Challenges and Opportunities of Joint Hosting

Joint hosting comes with both challenges and opportunities:

Challenges

• Coordinating logistics and security across three countries.

• Ensuring all stadiums meet CAF standards.

• Managing visa and travel arrangements for fans and teams.

Opportunities

• Promote East Africa as a tourism and sports destination.

• Strengthen regional collaboration and infrastructure.

• Inspire youth participation in football and sports development programs.

Alignment With the Global Football Calendar

AFCON 2027 will be strategically scheduled to minimize conflicts with international leagues:

• European Leagues: Most clubs observe a winter break in December–January.

• FIFA Windows: Ensures mandatory release of players for national duty.

• Club vs Country Balance: Maintains player availability without disrupting domestic seasons.

This ensures participation of top African players from leagues worldwide.

 Legacy of AFCON 2027 in East Africa

AFCON 2027 will leave a lasting legacy:

• Modern stadiums and training facilities will serve local leagues.

• Tourism growth will enhance East African economies.

• Enhanced visibility of East African football on the global stage.

• Youth and grassroots programs will benefit from inspiration and infrastructure.

 What Fans Should Expect

AFCON 2027 promises:

• Exciting group-stage matches across multiple cities.

• High-intensity knockout rounds leading to quarter-finals and semi-finals.

• Iconic moments and emerging stars, showcasing African talent.

• Cultural festivities blending football with East African heritage.

• A historic final in a stadium shared across host nations.

Conclusion

In summary, the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 will be hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marking the first time in history the tournament is staged across three nations.

This edition is historic for Cecafa and East Africa, providing economic, cultural, and sporting opportunities.

Fans, players, and football federations now have time to prepare for what promises to be a memorable, competitive, and transformative AFCON edition.

The tournament is set to inspire millions and further elevate African football on the global stage.

AFCON 2027 will not just be a sporting event; it will be a celebration of East African culture, collaboration, and football excellence.