Rabat– Botswana Football Association president Tariq Babitseng has confirmed that Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe have officially submitted a joint bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Babitseng said on Sunday during a press briefing in Harare, Zimbabwe, that the file was delivered on time and in full compliance with Confederation of African Football (CAF) requirements. “We hope to earn the honor of hosting this edition of the continental tournament,” he explained.
The proposal is one of the most significant collective bids currently under review by the CAF.
The joint effort aims to unite resources across southern Africa to strengthen football development and improve sports infrastructure.
Babitseng stressed that the collaboration shows a broader vision of regional cooperation within the COSAFA zone.
According to the plan, group‑stage matches would be spread across the four countries, while South Africa would stage the majority of the knockout rounds and the final.
This distribution is designed to maximize facilities and ensure smooth logistics.
Regional cooperation
CAF has encouraged multi‑nation hosting in recent years, offering incentives to federations willing to share responsibilities.
Babitseng noted that the bid aligns with this policy, showing the importance of solidarity and shared investment in football.
The four federations have already established coordination mechanisms to manage stadium readiness, transport, and security.
Officials believe the collaboration will leave a lasting legacy for the region, both in infrastructure and in football culture.
The next AFCON, in 2027, will be staged in East Africa, jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The 2028 edition is expected to serve as a transitional step before CAF moves to a new cycle, holding the tournament every four years instead of every two.
If successful, the southern Africa bid would bring the continent’s biggest football event back to South Africa for the first time since 2013, while also giving Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe their debut as AFCON hosts.
