Uganda, alongside Kenya and Tanzania, is advancing preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) awarded the hosting rights to the three East African nations in September 2023. This will mark the first time the tournament is held in the region since 1976.
Ugandan officials, including State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, have called for a unified national effort to ensure the country is ready. Preparations involve significant infrastructure development, including stadium construction and renovation. The main host cities in Uganda are expected to be Kampala and a yet-to-be-completed stadium in Hoima.
The economic impact of hosting is a major focus. While specific projections vary, officials anticipate a substantial boost from tourism and related services. The successful co-hosting of the tournament is seen as a strategic opportunity to enhance regional integration and showcase East Africa's capabilities on the continental stage.
