Security and Politics stir doubts over AFCON 2027 in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania

The question of whether Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will be ready to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) has dominated recent discussions, as preparations progress slowly and a CAF inspection team evaluates the ongoing work.

Rumors of a possible one-year postponement surfaced recently, fueled by delays in construction and organizational concerns.

The scarcity of alternative hosts — until countries like Morocco, the South Africa-Botswana duo, and Ethiopia expressed interest in CAN 2028 — further complicated the situation.

Adding to the uncertainty, Nicholas Musonye, president of Kenya’s local organizing committee, publicly supported a potential delay.

In an AFP interview, he suggested that a postponement “would benefit Kenya,” citing the upcoming general elections in August 2027 and associated security risks. 

Electoral periods in the region have historically raised concerns about safety for major events.

Musonye stressed that ensuring security for a tournament of CAN’s scale would be challenging amidst heightened political tension in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Despite the speculation, CAF appears cautious about a delay. Sources indicate that the executive committee meeting in Dar es Salaam this Friday is unlikely to discuss a postponement.

Tanzanian and Ugandan organizers have already deposited $30 million each to meet CAF obligations, while Kenya is expected to follow suit.

These financial commitments suggest the co-hosts remain committed to delivering the tournament as scheduled.

The Kenyan Football Federation has stepped in to reassure stakeholders.

President Hussein Mohammed emphasized Kenya’s readiness to host CAN 2027 alongside Tanzania and Uganda, aiming to quell growing media speculation.

Meanwhile, CAF’s inspection mission continues to monitor stadiums, infrastructure, and logistical readiness across the three countries.

Some uncertainties remain. Delays on several construction sites and Kenya’s mixed history in hosting major sporting events have fueled doubts about its ability to deliver on time.

Discussions have even circulated about merging CAN 2027 with CAN 2028 or shifting to a four-year cycle to ease organizational pressures, though no official decision has been made.

Ultimately, the CAF executive committee is expected to issue clear guidance this week.

While Kenya’s statements and financial commitments indicate a desire to maintain the original schedule, the tournament’s success will depend on meeting deadlines and ensuring security.

CAN 2027 remains under close scrutiny, but the current trajectory suggests the East African trio is determined to host the continent’s premier football event on time.