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Fix Afcon readiness crisis

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By  Editorial

It is worrying that none of the proposed venues for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, meet the required standards for staging the continent’s premier football tournament.

More troubling is that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has repeatedly had to urge the three countries to fast-track either the renovation or construction of key facilities, even as deadlines continue to shift.

CAF’s latest inspection report, released after last month’s tour focusing on infrastructure, safety and security, paints a grim picture of preparedness. It raises serious concerns about the ability of the three countries — which pride themselves on being among the region’s leading economies — to deliver the tournament on time.

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In Kenya, the situation is particularly concerning. Instead of focusing on completing critical venues such as Talanta Sports City Stadium, Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium, the Sports ministry appears preoccupied with reconstituting the Local Organising Committee (LOC).

While such changes may be necessary, they should not distract from the urgent task of delivering infrastructure. Any restructuring of the LOC would have been more appropriately undertaken after the delayed African Nations Championship (CHAN), which was hosted last August by the three countries.

There are also worrying signs of weak commitment. Kenya is yet to pay Sh3.9 billion in hosting rights fees for the 2027 tournament, despite having secured the bid in 2023. This delay raises legitimate questions about the country’s readiness and prioritisation of the event. With full operational readiness targeted for January 2027, CAF has made it clear that the period between now and August is critical. This is the decisive implementation phase, during which tangible progress must be demonstrated.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya must now act decisively. CAF has previously stripped Kenya of the rights to host both the 2018 CHAN and the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations after the country failed to meet infrastructure requirements. That history should serve as a clear warning.

Kenya — and its co-hosts — cannot afford a repeat.

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