KAMPALA — Leaders from across East Africa have reaffirmed their commitment to delivering a successful and historic 2027 Africa Cup of Nations as a high-level workshop opened in Kampala, bringing together key stakeholders from government, football federations, and continental bodies. 

The meeting convened officials from Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania—the joint hosts under the PAMOJA bid—alongside representatives from the Confederation of African Football, all focused on coordinating preparations for the continent’s biggest football tournament.

Uganda’s State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, described the tournament as a defining moment for the region, pledging full government support toward its successful delivery. “AFCON 2027 is a historic opportunity for East Africa,” Ogwang said, adding that partner states are committed to mobilising the resources required to meet CAF standards.

He also pointed to the successful hosting of the African Nations Championship as evidence of the region’s growing capacity to organise major competitions.

Moses Magogo, president of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations, emphasised that the tournament’s impact will extend beyond football.

“This is not just about the game—it is about regional integration and development within the East African Community,” Magogo said, noting that while the region may have lacked opportunities in the past, it has always had the capability.

From Kenya, Hussein Mohammed, president of the Football Kenya Federation, urged stakeholders to think beyond the tournament itself and focus on long-term legacy.

Meanwhile, Wallace Karia of the Tanzania Football Federation stressed the need for urgency and discipline, warning that key milestones must be met on schedule to allow sufficient time for final preparations.

Delivering a candid assessment, Samson Adamu noted that AFCON presents a significantly larger organisational challenge compared to CHAN.

“AFCON is a much bigger competition. It requires a shift in mindset and stronger coordination,” Adamu said, urging stakeholders to define roles clearly and work in close collaboration given the limited time available.

He also highlighted the tournament’s economic potential, citing the impact of previous AFCON editions, and described the 2027 event as a major opportunity for East Africa to showcase its unity, capacity, and global appeal.

The workshop marks a critical step in aligning the three host nations as preparations intensify for what is expected to be a landmark tournament for the region.

By ChimpReports