The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially confirmed that Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya will jointly host the 2027 Total Energies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to a statement from CAF President Patrice Motsepe following the executive committee meeting in Cairo.
In a historic move, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya will collaborate on hosting duties for the continent’s most anticipated football showpiece, welcoming it back after 51 years abroad. Since Ethiopia last staged the tournament in 1976, East African fans have eagerly awaited their next chance to experience the AFCON atmosphere firsthand.
The 2027 edition will break new ground as the first to be co-hosted by three countries simultaneously. The three nations will pool their resources to accommodate Africa’s biggest sporting event. This collaborative approach aims to expand the tournament’s reach across Africa and promote unity among nations, in line with CAF’s objectives.
The announcement has sparked widespread jubilation in Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya, as preparations are set to begin in earnest. The hosts will work closely to ensure a smoothly-organized event and accommodate the large number of expected football fans from across the continent and beyond.
The selection underscores the three countries’ growing prominence in African football through investments in modern training facilities and infrastructure capable of supporting such a competition. It also provides a platform to showcase their rich footballing heritage and vibrant cultures to global audiences.
Coordination efforts are expected to intensify between the tri-hosts and CAF to prepare for 2027. Local authorities, football associations and governments in Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya will work closely with the continental body to develop upgraded stadiums, transport networks, accommodation and other necessities for the competition.
Staging the tournament also presents economic opportunities through tourism, hospitality sectors and local businesses benefiting from the influx of fans. New infrastructure will also leave a legacy for grassroots football long after the final whistle.
As the long countdown begins, anticipation is building amongst supporters eager to learn details such as the official logo, mascot and match venues.
Expressing faith in the hosts, CAF President Patrice Motsepe said “Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya have demonstrated their commitment and capabilities to host a world-class tournament. We look forward to a memorable AFCON that will unite and inspire the entire continent.”
All roads now lead east as these nations prepare to unite Africa through the world’s most popular sport in 2027.
