Kenya's Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has dismissed claims that poor infrastructure could prevent Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Speaking during a benchmarking tour in Morocco, he emphasized the countries' readiness following the success of the 2025 African Nations Championship. CAF President Patrice Motsepe also rejected calls to relocate the tournament.
During a benchmarking tour in Morocco on January 18, 2026, Kenya's Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi stated that Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania possess the necessary capacity to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. "We have the capacity and what it takes, both infrastructure-wise and the amenities within the countries, including our teams. We did it during CHAN, and we did learn. We have the support of CAF and the president is supporting us," Mwangi said.
He added, "It is a great opportunity for us to show what we have. We shall make it better than CHAN and even better than Morocco."
The three nations received the AFCON flag, confirming their hosting role. Mwangi highlighted Morocco's stadium developments and pledged improvements at home, including completing Talanta Stadium for the opening and closing ceremonies.
The claims stemmed from Ivorian journalist Mamadou Gaye, who argued that poor roads would challenge teams during a January 17 press conference. CAF President Patrice Motsepe dismissed the relocation call, emphasizing development. "You’ve got to create opportunities for all African countries to develop infrastructure. I am confident that the AFCON will be successful. I know there will be challenges," Motsepe said.
He pointed to the 2025 CHAN success as proof of capability. The 2027 AFCON will be the first co-hosted edition and the first in East Africa since 1976 in Ethiopia. It is scheduled for June to July under the 'Pamoja' joint bid.