AFCON 2027: Controversy erupts among Kenyan politicians over venue allocation

The official AFCON 2027 bid cover image.

FOOTBALL AFCON 2027: Controversy erupts among Kenyan politicians over venue allocation

Peter Tabu • 13:25 - 02.10.2023

Governors Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o of Kisumu and Ferdinand Baraza of Kakamega have expressed their discontent over the selection of hosting stadiums through a joint statement, sparking debates among political circles.

Before the inaugural kick-off at AFCON 2027, disagreements over match locations in Kenya are already causing a stir.

Governors Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o of Kisumu and Ferdinand Baraza of Kakamega have expressed their discontent over the selection of hosting stadiums through a joint statement, sparking debates among political circles.

“The UDA government has announced that the AFCON 2027 football matches will be held in Nairobi and Eldoret; this, in our view, is a tragic decision,” the statement read in part.

They advocate for the inclusion of Western Kenya in the hosting cities, suggesting matches to be held in Kisumu or Kakamega.

“The western region of Kenya is where football fans exist in plenitude, NOT in Uashin Gishu or Eldoret for that matter,” they emphasized.

The East Africa PAMOJA bid was successful in securing the hosting rights for the AFCON 2027 tournament by CAF, surpassing competing bids from Egypt, Nigeria, and Botswana. However, the specifics regarding the game schedules and venues are yet to be finalized.

The bid presented by the three East African nations comprised six stadiums, eight airports, and 36 training facilities, among other facilities.

Kenya has proposed three stadiums: the Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums in Nairobi, and the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret.

Uganda has put forward the Namboole Stadium, with discussions ongoing regarding the reconstruction of the Aki-Bua and Buhinga stadiums in Lira and Fort Portal, respectively, and another proposed stadium in Hoima adjacent to the new Kabalega International Airport.

Tanzania has nominated the Benjamin Mkapa and Chamanzi Stadiums in Dar-es-Salaam and the Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza.

To secure Africa’s premier football event, each of the three participating countries is required to deposit USD 30 million to CAF by January 2025 as a guarantee, among other prerequisites.

This controversy around match allocations underscores the high stakes and significant interests within the region in hosting such a prestigious continental event.

The unfolding debates reflect the broader discussions about regional representation and equitable allocation of hosting rights within the country.

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