AFCON 2027: Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania face final construction deadlines

Following the September inspections, host countries must complete stadiums, training grounds and other facilities.

With less than nine months to go until the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are entering a crucial phase. Following an inspection tour by the Confederation of African Football in September, the three host countries must complete their stadiums and training grounds, and then demonstrate that the entire complex will be operational during the tournament.

In Kenya, the construction project goes beyond the stadiums

In Nairobi, the new Talanta Stadium, announced with a capacity of 60,000 seats, is the most visible project. The Kasarani Stadium still requires work. The Kenyan organizing committee aims to hand over this venue in December, following planned pitch repairs by the end of October. Training grounds, hotels, and transportation are also among the requirements.

Deadlines in Uganda and Tanzania

In Uganda, the Hoima stadium has been completed and opened. The Akii-Bua stadium in Lira is expected to open in December. Ugandan officials are aiming for the end of the year for most of the infrastructure, although some training pitches could be delivered in January 2027.

In Tanzania, the local committee estimates that the stadiums are more than 80% complete on average and hopes to hand them over to CAF in January. Training facilities are estimated to be around 75% complete. These percentages are estimates from the committee, not final CAF approval.

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to take place from June 19 to July 17. Beyond the completion of construction, host countries will need to test security, transportation, and services for teams and fans. This is a new development in this phase of preparations, following the initial inspections already announced.