KAMPALA — East African nations have reaffirmed their joint commitment to successfully host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, declaring they are “firmly on course” to deliver what they described as a transformational tournament under a unified regional approach.
The assurance was made during the PAMOJA TotalEnergies AFCON 2027 Ministerial Kick-Off Meeting held in Kampala on April 23, bringing together the Confederation of African Football (CAF), sports ministers from Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, as well as football federation leaders and local organising committee officials.
In a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, officials said the session provided an opportunity to review progress and align strategies ahead of the continental showpiece.
“The CAF Acting General Secretary commended the three host nations on their progress, emphasising coordination and a unified regional approach,” the statement noted.
The ministers also expressed gratitude to CAF President Patrice Motsepe for his “guidance and technical support” as preparations gather pace.
A comprehensive progress review focused on key areas including infrastructure, hospitality, safety and security, media readiness, and financing. According to the communiqué, each country presented updates on the construction and upgrading of stadiums, training facilities, transport networks, airports, and accommodation.
“Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to ensure all facilities meet CAF standards within agreed timelines, incorporating recommendations from recent CAF inspection reports,” the statement said.
On hospitality, the three nations pledged to position East Africa as a premier destination for visitors during the tournament.
“There was emphasis on hotel readiness, medical preparedness, security coordination, and warm regional hospitality reflecting the spirit of PAMOJA,” the ministers said.
To streamline organisation, the meeting agreed on a joint coordination framework for the Local Organising Committee, bringing together CAF representatives, ministers, football association presidents, and LOC chairpersons.
In a major step aimed at easing movement across borders, the ministers also agreed to operationalise a special PAMOJA Visa Framework.
“This includes seamless travel across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, special entry arrangements and visa exemptions, as well as expedited clearances and harmonised customs and immigration facilitation,” the communiqué stated.
Looking ahead, the countries are committed to holding regular high-level and technical meetings to track progress and address emerging challenges.
Uganda’s Sports Minister Peter Ogwang, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, and Tanzania’s Minister Paul Makonda jointly signed the communiqué, signalling continued political backing for the regional bid.
The 2027 tournament will mark the first time the Africa Cup of Nations is hosted jointly by three East African nations, a move officials say will not only boost sports development but also deepen regional integration.