Kenya has taken a major step forward in its preparations to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after successfully paying a hosting fee of Ksh3.9 billion to the Confederation of African Football. This payment has brought relief to many Kenyans who were worried that the country could lose its chance to co-host the prestigious tournament due to delays in meeting financial requirements.
The announcement was confirmed by Salim Mvurya, who stated that the government has now fulfilled one of the most important obligations required by CAF. The payment, which amounts to 30 million US dollars, is seen as a strong sign of Kenya’s commitment and readiness to host one of Africa’s biggest sporting events.
Under the leadership of William Ruto, the government has been working to ensure that all necessary preparations are in place. One of the key actions taken is the restructuring of the Local Organising Committee. This new structure brings together experts and stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, creating a more coordinated and effective planning system.
Despite this progress, there are still concerns, especially about the readiness of stadiums and other important infrastructure. Projects like Talanta Stadium are still under construction, and there is pressure to complete them on time. Following recent inspections by CAF officials, the government has promised to speed up work on stadiums, training grounds, transport systems, and security arrangements. These improvements are necessary to meet the high expectations of an international tournament like AFCON.
The preparations go beyond just buildings and facilities. Kenya is also working closely with its co-hosts, Uganda and Tanzania, to ensure smooth coordination. Plans are underway to create a shared system that will make it easier for players, officials, and fans to travel between the three countries. This includes discussions on visa processes and movement across borders, which will be important for the success of the tournament.
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By Deborah Sivyatsomana Kavira