On September 18, 2026, CAF President Patrice Motsepe visited Nairobi, inspecting key facilities that will host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. He met with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, discussing Kenya's preparations for the tournament. Motsepe expressed confidence in Kenya's ability to host the event, citing progress made so far. The 2027 Afcon will be held in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from June 19 to July 17.
Motsepe inspected the 60,000-capacity Talanta Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. While acknowledging remaining challenges, particularly at Kasarani, he expressed optimism about Kenya's preparations. He emphasized that his confidence in President Ruto had remained firm, pointing to Kenya's successful hosting of the 2024 African Nations Championship after extended preparations.
Motsepe dismissed doubts about Kenya's readiness, saying that focusing on positives and progress made so far was essential. He noted that there were challenges, shortcomings, weaknesses, and failures but expressed confidence that Kenya would host the most successful Afcon in the competition's history. His comments come after months of scrutiny over Kenya's readiness.
The CAF president rejected suggestions that CAF was considering alternative arrangements if Kenya failed to complete its preparations on time. He stated that there was no Plan B or C, citing his experience with Kenya's CHAN preparations. Motsepe postponed CHAN to allow for extended preparations, which ultimately became a success.
Motsepe received a report raising concerns about Kenya's preparations but directed his team to focus on areas needing attention rather than shortcomings. He expressed confidence in President Ruto, who had not disappointed during CHAN preparations. The CAF president will return to the region in January for a final assessment before the tournament.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, who accompanied Motsepe during the inspection, stated that the government had agreed on a fresh plan to complete remaining work at host facilities. The government expects the work to be completed by December, allowing for test matches to be played at the venues. This plan will ensure that Kenya finishes the work within the agreed timeline.
Motsepe stressed the need for football stakeholders in Kenya to work together to strengthen national teams and ensure a successful 2027 Afcon. He will not visit Uganda during his current regional tour due to US entry requirements but will return to the region in January for a final assessment. The CAF president expressed pride in the progress made so far.
Key points
- CAF president Patrice Motsepe expresses confidence in Kenya's ability to host 2027 Afcon
- Motsepe dismisses doubts about Kenya's readiness, citing progress made so far
- No Plan B or C for 2027 Afcon, says Motsepe
