NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya has secured its role in hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after the government paid a crucial hosting fee to continental football authorities, easing concerns over a potential loss of rights.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 31, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya confirmed that the government had remitted $30 million (approximately KSh3.9 billion) to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“I am pleased to announce that the Government of Kenya has fully met its financial and institutional obligations to CAF as we steadily advance towards co-hosting the 2027 AFCON,” the CS announced.
“In fulfilment of our commitments, the government has remitted a $30 million hosting fee to CAF, reaffirming Kenya’s credibility, readiness, and unwavering commitment to delivering a successful continental tournament,” Mvurya added.
The payment removes uncertainty that had emerged in recent weeks over whether Kenya could meet key financial deadlines tied to the hosting agreement for 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Kenya is set to co-host the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, marking a historic return of Africa’s premier football competition to the East African region for the first time in decades.
Mvurya said the government has also restructured the Local Organising Committee to include stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, in a move aimed at strengthening coordination and accelerating preparations.
The Ministry of Sports indicated that, following recent inspection visits by CAF officials, Kenya will fast-track infrastructure upgrades to meet international standards.
Key areas targeted include stadium construction and refurbishment, training facilities, transport and logistics systems, as well as safety, security, and broadcast capabilities.
“This is a routine but critical process in the hosting cycle, and Kenya is addressing each recommendation with precision, urgency, and accountability,” Mvurya noted.
In a further step towards joint preparedness, officials from the three host nations are expected to meet next month to develop a harmonised framework for tournament operations.
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Among the priorities will be visa facilitation measures to ensure seamless movement of teams, match officials, and fans across borders during the competition.
The latest development is seen as a major milestone in Kenya’s bid to successfully co-host AFCON 2027, a tournament expected to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits to the region.
However, challenges remain, particularly around infrastructure delivery timelines and funding, issues that have historically affected major sporting projects in the country.
The government’s ability to meet upcoming deadlines will be closely watched by CAF and stakeholders, as preparations enter a more intensive phase.
