Three countries have formally entered the race to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, with CAF set to decide the winner at its Executive Committee meeting in Tanzania.
The Confederation of African Football confirmed it has received official bids from Morocco, Ethiopia, and a joint proposal from South Africa and Botswana to stage the continental tournament.
The decision will be discussed and finalised on Friday, 13 February, when CAF’s Executive Committee meets in Dar Es Salaam.
The meeting comes at a pivotal moment for African football’s flagship competition.
Following a decision in December to move to a four-year cycle, the 2028 edition will be followed by the next tournament in 2032.
CAF’s leadership is keen to settle the hosting issue promptly in order to turn its attention to other strategic matters concerning the development of the game across the continent.
While attention focuses on 2028, preparations are also under way for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
A CAF inspection team has travelled to the three East African nations scheduled to host that edition – Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
The mission, which runs until 17 February, is assessing facilities and operational readiness.
CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe is expected to use the Executive Committee gathering to highlight the progress made by the three co-hosts.
The countries received positive assessments following their organisation of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August 2025.
However, CAF has stressed that the requirements for the Africa Cup of Nations are more demanding.
Evaluations include detailed technical checks on playing surfaces, as well as reviews of safety, security and the readiness of main stadiums and training venues.
In a statement, CAF indicated that “these inspections are part of a broader strategy to raise standards on and off the pitch throughout African football.
By establishing consistent, world-class criteria for infrastructure, operations, and venue management, CAF aims to enhance the reputation of the Africa Cup of Nations as one of the most prestigious football tournaments in the world.
These efforts also support CAF’s broader objective of contributing to the development of a stronger and more self-sustaining football ecosystem on the continent, through partnerships with governments to improve facilities, service delivery capacity, and the long-term development of football.”
Inspection visits include Dar Es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar in Tanzania, where the Benjamin Mkapa, Amaan and Fumba stadiums will be assessed.
In Kenya, Kasarani, Nyayo and Talanta Sport stadiums are under review, along with the Ulinzi Sports Complex and the Kenya Sports Academy.
Uganda’s facilities in Kampala and Entebbe, including the Mandela Stadium and designated training sites, are also being examined.
CAF’s decision on 2028 will shape the next chapter of Africa’s premier football tournament.
