AFCON 2027 hosts face final infrastructure deadlines

Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania have entered the decisive phase of preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with less than nine months remaining to complete venues and supporting infrastructure. The hosts must also demonstrate that stadiums, training grounds, transport, security and team services can operate during the tournament, which is scheduled for June 19 to July 17.

Kenya’s Talanta Stadium in Nairobi remains the most prominent project, with a planned capacity of 60,000. Kasarani Stadium still requires work, including pitch interventions targeted for completion by the end of October, while its handover is planned for December. Training grounds, hotels and transport facilities are also part of the preparations.

Uganda has completed and opened the Hoima stadium, but the Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira is expected to be ready in December. Officials are targeting year-end delivery for much of the infrastructure, although some training sites may not be available until January 2027. Tanzania estimates that its stadium projects are more than 80% complete on average and aims to hand them over in January, while training facilities are assessed at about 75%. Those figures remain internal estimates rather than final CAF approval. The next phase will focus on testing the systems needed for teams and supporters after the September inspections.