AFCON 2027: Government Eyes Overhaul of Kenya’s Local Organising Committee

The government is preparing to make key adjustments to the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, aiming to strengthen preparations and ensure the tournament is delivered efficiently and on schedule.

Kenya is set to restructure the LOC as part of wider efforts to enhance readiness for the continental showpiece. Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya confirmed that revisions are on the way, with the possibility of some current members being replaced while new faces could be brought in to reinforce the team.

According to Mvurya, such changes are necessary due to the scale and importance of the competition, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania between June and July 2027. The government believes a refreshed committee will be better equipped to handle the demands of organizing a tournament of this magnitude.

The LOC was previously reorganized in December 2024 by former Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. Its responsibilities included overseeing preparations for both the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and AFCON 2027. The committee brings together experienced professionals from multiple sectors and is led by seasoned football administrator Nicholas Musonye, the former Secretary-General of the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA).

Structure of the AFCON 2027 Organising Team

The committee features several notable figures, including sports journalist Elias Makori, former Harambee Stars head coach Jacob “Ghost” Mulee, and ex-Harambee Starlets player Terry Ouko. Representatives from key organizations, such as the Media Owners Association and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, also sit on the steering committee.

Government involvement is extensive, with the Solicitor General and Principal Secretaries from various ministries forming part of the LOC. These include departments responsible for Public Health, ICT, Tourism, Foreign Affairs, Immigration, Investment Promotion, and East African Community affairs.

The committee’s central task has been to develop a detailed roadmap to guide preparations for both CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027, alongside coordinating other critical planning activities.

Supporting the LOC is a secretariat headed by Mike Rabar, which also includes the Football Kenya Federation president and CEO. Other members of this team are Dennis Kinyua, Natasha Nyakundi, Lorna Misoi, Jack Mukhongo Munialo, Jimmy Lorot Lokolong, Ivy Kittony, and Nicole Mwende.

With the scale of AFCON 2027 presenting a significant challenge, the committee faces a demanding task ahead. Strong government backing will be crucial if Kenya is to deliver a successful tournament and match the high standards set by Morocco, the hosts of AFCON 2025.