AFCON 2027: Why Kenya Is Pushing to Host More Matches Than Uganda and Tanzania

Kenya has stepped up early preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, signaling its intention to host a greater share of matches than co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania.

Although the official allocation of fixtures for AFCON 2027 has yet to be confirmed, Kenya is already laying the groundwork to position itself as the primary venue. The three East African nations will jointly stage the tournament, with match distribution expected to depend on infrastructure readiness, stadium quality, logistics and overall preparedness.

Lessons from the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) have clearly shaped Kenya’s approach. During that tournament, high-profile fixtures such as the opening match, semi-finals and final attracted the most attention. Tanzania hosted the opening game and one semi-final, Uganda staged the other semi-final and the third-place playoff, while Kenya was given the honour of hosting the final.

Beyond those headline fixtures, the competition also featured group stage matches and quarter-finals across the host nations. However, Kenya missed the opportunity to stage additional games after some infrastructure projects were not completed on time, forcing certain matches to be moved to Zanzibar. Determined not to repeat that experience, Kenyan officials are now prioritising early upgrades and compliance with Confederation of African Football standards.

Kenya Banking on Three Quality Stadiums

For AFCON 2027, Kenya aims to have three fully compliant stadiums ready instead of relying on just two. The strategy is expected to strengthen the country’s case when matches are being distributed.

According to Local Organising Committee chairman Nicholas Musonye, both Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani) and Talanta Stadium will serve as the country’s primary venues. In addition, efforts are underway to upgrade Nyayo National Stadium to meet international standards, potentially giving Kenya a third approved venue.

Musonye has indicated that improvements will focus on pitch quality and operational systems. During the CHAN final, sections of the Kasarani playing surface required attention, and authorities are keen to ensure the turf meets elite competition standards well ahead of 2027.

Enhancements are also planned for venue control rooms and security infrastructure in line with guidelines from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). These upgrades are seen as essential to securing approval for hosting high-profile fixtures.

Nyayo Stadium Key to Kenya’s Ambition

At CHAN 2024, Kasarani and Nyayo hosted matches in Nairobi, with Harambee Stars playing at Kasarani while Nyayo staged several Group A fixtures. Nyayo, in particular, drew strong attendance figures, largely due to its central location and proximity to Nairobi’s Central Business District.

Kenyan organisers believe that having three competition-ready stadiums will allow the two larger venues to host premium fixtures, including potential knockout matches, while still accommodating a full schedule of group-stage games.

By accelerating renovations and addressing CAF requirements early, Kenya hopes to strengthen its bid for a larger portion of AFCON 2027 matches and establish itself as a central hub of the tournament across East Africa.