AFCON 2027: Why Next 3 Days Will Make or Break Kenya’s Hosting Chances

As Kenya works round the clock to ensure key infrastructure needed for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations is in place, the next three days could define their future as co-hosts.

Already, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has flagged major gaps that raises questions over the country’s preparedness with works at Kasarani and Talanta Stadiums, the two venues earmarked to host matches, behind schedule while the upgrade on training facilities is yet to start.

That has led to concerns over whether Kenya will deliver the facilities needed in time given the stipulated period is six months before the tournament kicks off.

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However, while that issue needs to be tackled, of the immediate concern is a certain Ksh3.9 billion fee that could strip Kenya of its hosting rights if it is not paid in the next three days.

CAF has been waiting for Kenya to show its commitment and pay the hosting fee of $30 million (Ksh3.9 billion) as the country lags behind after co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania met their end of the bargain.

With the deadline set on March 30, it is just three days left and the Ministry of Sports has to apply pressure on the Treasury to release the funds in time otherwise, the country could be left in a difficult position if the fee is not paid by close of business on Monday.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya allayed any fears that Kenya could lose its hosting rights earlier in the week but now, it is time for the government to put its money where its mouth is.

“On the matter of AFCON hosting fee, Kenya is supposed to pay Ksh3.9 billion. We are already working with the National Treasury and the requisite committee in parliament to comply with our financial obligation,” Mvurya said on Wednesday while appearing before the Senate.

“I want to assure Kenyans that the government is working around the clock to make sure we meet our obligations,” he further stated.

Kenyans will therefore be hoping that this hurdle is cleared before the country embarks on the next difficult one of ensuring all the necessary infrastructure is ready and delivered to CAF on time.