Samson Adamu calls on East Africa to embrace fresh approach before 2027 AFCON
In August 2025, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania jointly organised the delayed CHAN event, which included squads drawn from players active in their countries domestic leagues.
Morocco overcame Madagascar with a 3-2 victory in the final at Kasarani Stadium, securing their third CHAN crown in six years. This achievement positioned them as the tournaments most decorated side, surpassing DR Congos record of two wins.
The trio of countries is now gearing up to jointly host the 2027 AFCON from 19 June to 18 July, marking the inaugural instance of a three nation collaboration and the first such event in the CECAFA area in over fifty years, following Ethiopias hosting in 1976.
Prior to the competition, officials from governments, CAF, and the PAMOJA hosts conveyed firm pledges of dedication, solidarity, and preparedness at a CAF AFCON 2027 seminar in Kampala, establishing a positive foundation for the upcoming preparation stages with a common goal to stage an unprecedented and impactful event for the East African region.
We should steer clear of drawing parallels
AFCON presents a tremendous chance for the area to showcase its strengths and cohesion. The edition in Morocco brought in 1.8 billion dollars through direct investments and overall value, highlighting the possible benefits, stated Adamu during the Kampala session.
While CHAN offered useful insights, AFCON stands as an entirely distinct event with expanded scope, higher demands, and broader anticipation. It is vital that we cultivate a renewed perspective and refrain from making direct comparisons.
Adamu continued: We are roughly one year out, and our timeframe is tight. Matters that could be deferred earlier must be addressed immediately. Each instant counts. Following this gathering, duties and obligations need to be precisely outlined, and key targets firmly established. Robust frameworks and governmental backing are crucial.
Adamu also reassured the East African representatives that CAF President Patrice Motsepe fully supports the regional hosting.
The CAF President and the federation have faith in this initiative, clarified Adamu. We will triumph as a unit and tackle obstacles collectively.
We need to collaborate intimately, communicate candidly, and concentrate on achieving solid results. This represents a significant prospect for everyone involved. Failure is not an option. I refuse to let it happen.
AFCON 2027 as the finest ever
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) President Moses Magogo remarked: Previously, such occasions took place in other African areas, yet not in East Africa. Our shortfall was in chances and expertise, not in competence.
We possess the opportunity at last, and we intend to draw knowledge from the Confederation of African Football, which boasts extensive know how in managing AFCON. This serves as a boon for the East African Community.
Our authorities have stressed the importance of continental unity, and football is fostering greater bonds across East Africa. It offers a platform to bolster and enhance our regional ties.
Magogo further noted: We are prepared to absorb lessons, enhance our efforts, and execute successfully. In areas where CHAN exposed weaknesses, we plan to rectify them. Our aim is to position East Africa as the most outstanding host continent wide.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed commented: The developments post 2027 will shape our identity. The inheritance we establish for coming generations holds utmost importance. This demands dedication, extended efforts, and prioritising collective goals over individual ones.
It is a privilege to contribute to this endeavour. I guarantee all parties that we shall exert every effort to render AFCON 2027 the greatest edition to date.
Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President Wallace Karia vowed to the continental organisation that outstanding assignments will be finalised by Decembers close.
We shall not disappoint you, affirmed Karia. We will heed advice diligently and proceed with haste.
All essential assignments must be wrapped up by the years end, allowing the subsequent time for polishing arrangements.
The CAF team under Adamus guidance visited Uganda to outline critical focus areas for the forthcoming preparation period of the event.
This initial assembly underscores the unified resolve of CAF and the three PAMOJA hosts to partner closely with defined objectives as the buildup accelerates.