East Africa has taken a major step toward hosting a groundbreaking edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2027, as top leaders and football stakeholders gathered in Kampala for the PAMOJA TotalEnergies AFCON Ministerial Kick-Off Meeting. The high-level session united representatives from the Confรฉdรฉration Africaine de Football (CAF), along with sports ministers and football officials from Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, all driven by a shared goalโdelivering a successful and transformative continental tournament.
The meeting highlighted the regionโs strong unity under the PAMOJA partnership, with CAF leadership commending the progress already made. Emphasis was placed on the importance of close coordination, timely planning, and a collective regional approach to ensure the tournament meets world-class standards. In return, the host nations expressed appreciation for the continued guidance and support from CAF, reaffirming their commitment to staging a memorable competition that reflects East Africaโs rising influence in football.
A central focus of the discussions was the state of preparations across key sectors. Updates were presented on stadium construction and upgrades, transport networks, airport expansion, and accommodation facilities. The three governments pledged to meet CAF requirements within set timelines, ensuring that all infrastructure aligns with international standards.
Beyond physical development, the meeting underscored the importance of delivering an exceptional fan experience. Plans are underway to showcase East Africa as a vibrant, welcoming destination, with attention to tourism, hospitality, healthcare, safety, and efficient mobility during the tournament. Governance and organization were also key priorities. A structured coordination framework for the PAMOJA Local Organising Committee was agreed upon, designed to promote accountability, efficiency, and seamless decision-making across all participating nations.
To enhance accessibility, ministers advanced plans for a unified visa system, aimed at simplifying travel for fans, teams, officials, and media. This initiative will streamline immigration and customs procedures across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, making cross-border movement easier during the tournament.
Looking ahead, stakeholders committed to holding regular progress meetings to ensure preparations remain on track. The Kampala gathering, attended by regional sports ministers and football association leaders, marked the conclusion of a two-day workshop and set the tone for a collaborative journey toward AFCON 2027โone that promises to leave a lasting legacy for East African football and beyond.
