Kenya steps up preparations to co-host AFCON 2027

A section of Principal Secretaries who attended the meeting/HOPS

Kenya has stepped up preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Uganda and Tanzania, with Head of Public Service Felix Koskei saying government agencies have been given clear responsibilities ahead of the tournament.

Koskei said Kenya was reviewing preparations across key sectors as the country works towards hosting the continental football tournament from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

He said a meeting involving Principal Secretaries assessed progress in stadium readiness, security, health services, immigration, transport, accommodation, power, ICT, broadcasting and hospitality.

“AFCON 2027 is coming home to East Africa, and Kenya is getting ready,” Koskei said.

He said the multi-sectoral approach was intended to ensure preparations remain coordinated, with government agencies working within clear timelines.

“We took stock of Kenya’s preparations to co-host Africa’s biggest football spectacle alongside Uganda and Tanzania,” he said.

Koskei said inspections and technical engagements with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) were continuing and would help Kenya identify gaps and address areas requiring urgent attention.

“CAF inspection visits and technical engagements continue to guide the preparations, helping us identify gaps, address priorities and keep implementation on course,” he said.

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei during the meeting with Principal Secretaries/HOPS‎

The Head of Public Service said each government team involved in the preparations had been assigned responsibilities as the country works towards ensuring it is ready when the tournament begins.

“Across Government, teams have clear responsibilities and timelines, with the focus firmly on delivering the tournament and ensuring Kenya is ready when the first whistle blows,” Koskei said.

Kenya is expected to host part of the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, in what will be one of the biggest sporting events to be staged in the region.

Beyond football, Koskei said AFCON 2027 offered Kenya an opportunity to promote the country as a tourism and business destination and create opportunities for local enterprises.

He said the tournament could boost tourism and trade while opening opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises, creatives and players in the hospitality sector.

“Beyond the action on the pitch, AFCON presents an opportunity to showcase Kenya, boost tourism and trade, and expand business opportunities for MSMEs, creatives and the hospitality industry,” he said.

Koskei said the government was also looking beyond the tournament itself, with the preparations expected to leave behind improved sporting facilities and stronger football infrastructure.

“Our goal is to secure lasting benefits through modern sporting facilities, stronger football infrastructure and more opportunities for young Kenyan talent long after the tournament ends,” he said.

The government’s preparations come as the three East African hosts work towards meeting CAF requirements for the tournament.

Koskei said the countdown had begun, signalling the need for government agencies and other stakeholders to maintain momentum as preparations enter a critical phase.

“The countdown is on. Africa is coming. Kenya is getting ready,” he said.

A section of Principal Secretaries who attended the meeting/HOPS‎