Kenya is intensifying efforts to meet the Confederation of African Football's (CAF) requirements ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The tournament, scheduled from June 19 to July 17, 2027, will feature 24 nations across multiple venues.

Stadium Preparations Progress

The Talanta Sports City, a key venue with a 60,000-seat capacity, has surpassed 90% completion as of May 2026, positioning it well for the upcoming tournament. Conversely, the renovation of Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) Kasarani, the other Kenyan match venue with 48,000 seats, is trailing behind schedule. Upgrades at Kasarani include replacing the playing surface and meeting CAF's stringent infrastructure standards.

Local Organising Committee (LOC) chairman Nicholas Musonye acknowledged concerns over Kasarani's progress but expressed confidence that significant improvements will be evident by the time CAF inspectors visit in August 2026. "By the end of this week, substantial work will be underway to satisfy CAF's requirements," he said.

Training Grounds and Facilities

Kenya has identified 12 training grounds for the tournament, with three at Talanta Sports City currently under development. The Ministry of Defence took over these facilities in June 2026 for refurbishment to international standards. Renovations at Kasarani Annex 1 and 2 are set to begin imminently after resolving contract issues.

CAF mandates that training venues have secured access, uniform pitch surfaces, minimum lighting of 500 lux, adequate dressing rooms, and dedicated media and team facilities.

Governance, Security, and Cross-Border Coordination

The LOC across the three host nations must be fully operational by the August inspection. A working group focused on cross-border movement is expected to have established a practical roadmap and legal framework underway.

On security, Kenya has formed a 25-member committee representing various sectors to ensure visitor safety during the event. The Ministry of Sports oversees procurement and supplier management.

Financial and Operational Commitments

The Kenyan government has paid a Sh3.9 billion hosting rights fee to CAF. Despite a funding gap of Sh5.7 billion reported earlier, the LOC is optimistic about securing the necessary budget to run operations smoothly.

Following a presidential meeting in July 2026, Kenya, along with Tanzania and pending confirmation from Uganda, agreed to implement free entry visas for fans and stakeholders to facilitate smooth cross-border movement during the tournament.

CAF Venue Specifications

  • Modern natural grass pitches with drainage and irrigation systems
  • Lighting between 2,500 and 3,000 lux for match venues
  • Designated presidential, VVIP, and VIP areas with private lounges
  • Multiple equal-sized dressing rooms for players and referees, including female referee facilities
  • Press conference rooms, media centers, and tribunes with specific seating capacities

Despite challenges, Kenya remains committed to meeting CAF's deadlines and delivering a successful hosting experience for the 2027 Afcon tournament.