Kenya has publicly opened the door to a possible postponement of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which it is set to co-host with Tanzania and Uganda.
As an inspection mission from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) evaluates the progress of the projects, one question keeps coming up: will the three countries really be ready in time to host the tournament next year?
A context that raises doubts
In recent days, rumors have surfaced about a one-year delay for the tournament. This theory gains credibility since, until recently, few candidates seemed interested in hosting the next edition. But the situation has changed: Morocco, the South Africa-Botswana duo, and Ethiopia have officially expressed their interest in the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations to CAF.
This adds more uncertainty around the continental calendar.
Kenyan committee head in favor of a postponement
The remarks from Nicholas Musonye, president of the local Kenyan organizing committee, have made a significant impact. In an interview with AFP, he stated that a postponement “would be beneficial for Kenya,” citing the preparations for the general elections scheduled for August 2027.
Security risks related to the elections
According to him, the electoral context in the region could pose serious security challenges:
“We have noticed the tense climate surrounding these elections in Tanzania, Uganda, and even Kenya. Security could not be guaranteed for a competition as significant as the Africa Cup of Nations.”
This is a strong argument in a region where election periods often come with tensions.
Will it stay on schedule after all?
Despite these statements, the trend may not necessarily lean towards a postponement. Meeting this Friday in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the CAF executive committee will decide on several pressing issues.
According to insider Micky Jnr, CAF is unlikely to approve a postponement. Tanzania and Uganda have each already deposited $30 million to CAF as part of their obligations as co-hosts. Kenya, on the other hand, is expected to comply very soon.
This is a strong signal that could weigh heavily in the final decision of the continental body.
