Samson Adamu, the acting secretary general of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has urged East Africa to avoid drawing comparisons between the hosting of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the forthcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In August 2025, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania jointly hosted the rescheduled CHAN tournament, which showcased national teams made up of players currently in their local leagues.
Morocco triumphed over Madagascar with a score of 3-2 in the final held at Kasarani Stadium, securing their third CHAN title in six years. This victory positioned them as the most successful team in the tournament’s history, surpassing DR Congo’s two titles.
The three nations are gearing up to co-host the 2027 AFCON from 19 June to 18 July, marking the first time the tournament will be held in three different countries and the first time in five decades that it will take place in the CECAFA region, following Ethiopia’s hosting in 1976.
Prior to the tournament, leaders from CAF, government, and the PAMOJA host nations expressed strong commitments to unity and preparedness during a CAF AFCON 2027 workshop in Kampala, laying the groundwork for the next phase of planning with a shared goal of delivering a landmark and transformative tournament for East Africa.
‘Avoiding Comparisons’
“The AFCON presents a significant opportunity for the region to showcase its capabilities and solidarity. The recent AFCON in Morocco generated $1.8 billion in direct investment, highlighting the potential economic impact,” stated Adamu during the Kampala workshop.
“While CHAN provided us with valuable insights, it’s essential to recognise that AFCON is a distinct tournament with much larger expectations and requirements. We need to adopt a fresh perspective and refrain from making comparisons.”
He further emphasised: “With just a year to go, we are operating on limited time. What could be postponed before can no longer wait. Every second counts. From this meeting, roles and responsibilities need to be clearly defined, and key milestones identified. Robust organisational structures and government backing are crucial.”
Adamu also reassured East Africa of CAF President Patrice Motsepe’s support for hosting the tournament in the region.
“CAF’s leadership is fully invested in this project,” Adamu explained. “We must succeed together and navigate challenges together.”
“Collaboration, open dialogue, and a focus on achieving a positive outcome are paramount. This is a tremendous opportunity for all of us, and we cannot afford to falter. I will not permit us to fail.”
AFCON 2027: A Landmark Event
Moses Magogo, President of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), remarked: “These tournaments have been previously hosted in other regions of Africa but not in East Africa. What we have lacked is not skill or ability, but opportunity and experience.
“Now, we have the chance to lean on the experience of the Confederation of African Football in hosting the AFCON. This presents a significant opportunity for the East African Community.
“Our leaders have highlighted the importance of regional integration, and football is a powerful medium for uniting East Africa. This is our opportunity to strengthen and enhance our unity.”
Magogo further stated: “We are keen to learn, advance, and execute our plans effectively. We will address any shortcomings from the CHAN and aim to make East Africa the finest host in AFCON’s history.”
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed mentioned: “The legacy we create post-2027 will be vital for future generations. This demands dedication, extensive hours, and a commitment that exceeds individual interests.
“It’s a privilege to be involved in this initiative. I assure all stakeholders of our resolve to make AFCON 2027 the best ever.”
Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President Wallace Karia pledged that the remaining tasks would be accomplished by the end of December.
“We won’t let you down,” Karia affirmed. “We will heed advice seriously and proceed with urgency.”
“All essential tasks must be finalised by December, so that the lead-up period focuses on final preparations.”
The CAF delegation led by Adamu is currently in Uganda to provide updates on the priorities for the next preparation phase for the tournament.
This initial meeting illustrates the collective intention of CAF and the three PAMOJA host nations to collaborate effectively and with a precise sense of purpose as preparations escalate.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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