East Africa May Face Challenges Hosting 2027 AFCON

Ivorian journalist Mamadou Gaye has addressed recent comments he made regarding East Africa’s preparedness to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Gaye stated his remarks were not intended to offend the region or its people.

Assessment of East Africa’s Readiness

Mamadou Gaye maintains his assessment that Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have not adequately prepared for the 2027 AFCON. He attributes this view to a significant increase in hosting standards following Morocco’s staging of the 2025 tournament. Gaye expressed concern about the potential for failure or delay, suggesting that hosting rights could be reassigned if the three countries are not ready.

Morocco as a Benchmark

Gaye emphasized that Morocco’s successful hosting of AFCON 2025 has established a new benchmark for the continent. He highlighted Morocco’s integrated transport system, which allowed seamless travel between venues via highways, speed trains, rail, and bus. He stated that he expects sub-Saharan Africa to reach a similar level of infrastructure.

Infrastructure and Travel Concerns

While acknowledging progress in East Africa, Gaye questioned whether the region currently meets the demands of an AFCON-scale tournament. He noted a disparity between urban areas and the rest of the countries, comparing it to the situation in West Africa. He also expressed concerns about travel times between host cities, stating that while some roads are good, they do not meet international highway standards.

Historical Context and Past Experiences

Gaye drew comparisons between Côte d’Ivoire and Morocco, noting that Côte d’Ivoire was more developed than Morocco in the 1980s. He referenced Kenya’s past experience, recalling that the country lost hosting rights for the 1996 AFCON due to a lack of preparedness, which resulted in the tournament being awarded to South Africa.

Resilience and Expectations

Gaye cited Morocco’s ability to hold the opening ceremony of AFCON 2025 despite heavy rainfall as an example of resilience. He expressed the expectation that East African countries will demonstrate a similar level of preparedness.

Initial Reaction and CAF Response

Mamadou Gaye’s comments sparked debate after he questioned East Africa’s suitability to host AFCON 2027 during a press conference. CAF president Patrice Motsepe responded by firmly dismissing suggestions that CAF would strip the region of hosting rights.