A Joint Effort by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania wins bid under the Pamoja Project

In a groundbreaking announcement, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revealed that Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will unite to host the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) as part of the Pamoja project.

Under the Pamoja project, the proposed venues and preparations for AFCON 2027 are a testament to the region’s commitment to hosting a world-class event. Uganda, in particular, will play a pivotal role in this endeavor.

Infrastructure Development and Tourism Boost

The infrastructure upgrades planned for Uganda include:

• Hospitals: Mulago Hospital
• Hotels: Sheraton Hotel and Kampala Serena Hotel
• Training Grounds: Kampala International School Uganda (KISU) and Muteesa II Stadium Wankulukuku
• Stadiums: Mandela National Stadium, Denver Godwin Stadium (Garuga), St. Mary’s Stadium, and Nakivubo Stadium
• Proposed New Stadiums: Akii Bua Stadium and Hoima
• Airports: Entebbe International Airport, Kabalega Airport, Hoima

According to Peter Ogwang, the Minister for Sports, the heads of state from all three countries played a vital role in making this milestone possible. This endeavor promises to boost tourism and infrastructure development in the region.

Economic Opportunities Abound

Hosting AFCON 2027 presents a plethora of economic opportunities for the East African region. Rogers Mulindwa, the Pamoja bid spokesperson, emphasized the potential for growth and development:

1. Tourism: The influx of football enthusiasts and tourists will drive demand for accommodation, transportation, and entertainment services, providing ample opportunities for local investors to tap into this market.
2. Infrastructure Development: The construction and upgrading of stadiums, airports, and other facilities will stimulate local industries, create jobs, and enhance the overall infrastructure of the region.
3. Sports Development: The hosting of AFCON 2027 will encourage youth participation in sports, potentially yielding future talent and investments in the sporting sector.
4. Global Exposure: East African teams will have a spotlight on them, not only during the tournament but also through global media coverage. This presents an excellent opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills to a worldwide audience.

Preparations Underway

According to FUFA (Federation of Uganda Football Associations), the facilities in Uganda are expected to be ready in time for AFCON 2027. This includes the capacity to accommodate 40,000 spectators, as seen in Namboole Stadium, along with two additional stadiums seating 15,000 spectators each, namely Kitende and Nakivubo stadiums.

Looking Ahead

As East Africa prepares to host AFCON 2027 under the Pamoja project, the region stands at the threshold of significant economic growth. With infrastructure development, tourism, and sports at the forefront, the collaborative effort of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania promises to put East Africa on the map as a vibrant and dynamic destination for both sports enthusiasts and investors alike. Stay tuned as the region gears up to welcome the world in 2027.