By Our Correspondent
National News – Kenya has paid a mandatory $30 million hosting fee to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), officially confirming its role as one of the co-hosts of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The payment was announced on Tuesday by the country’s Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, who described the move as a major milestone in preparations for the continental football tournament.
Mvurya explained that the payment demonstrates Kenya’s readiness and credibility in delivering a successful AFCON event.
According to him, the government has also reorganised the Multi-Agency Local Organising Committee to coordinate preparations and ensure all logistical, administrative and technical requirements for the tournament are properly addressed.
The sports minister added that preparations extend beyond financial obligations.
He revealed that discussions would begin next month on implementing a harmonised framework covering visa facilitation, tax exemptions, customs coordination and streamlined clearance processes for goods and services linked to the tournament.
These measures, he said, will help create a smooth operational environment for teams, officials, sponsors and fans attending the championship.
Mvurya also noted that the initiative aligns with the vision of William Ruto, the President of Kenya, who aims to position the country as a leading destination for international sporting events.
According to the government, hosting AFCON is expected to stimulate economic activity, promote youth engagement in sports, generate employment opportunities and elevate Kenya’s global sporting profile.
Kenya will host the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania under the “Pamoja” regional partnership initiative, which emphasises collaboration among East African nations to deliver a world-class competition.
The joint hosting model is designed to strengthen regional integration while allowing the three countries to share infrastructure, logistics and tourism benefits.
Officials believe the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations could attract thousands of international visitors, boost tourism and increase investment in stadium upgrades, transport infrastructure and hospitality services across the host nations.
Mvurya reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to exceeding continental and global expectations, stressing that the country and its partners are determined to deliver one of the most memorable AFCON tournaments in history.
