Kenya Risks Losing AFCON Hosting Rights Over Ksh3.5B Fee Delay
Kenya is facing the real possibility of losing its chance to co-host the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) if it fails to pay a mandatory hosting fee of Ksh3.5 billion by the end of March 2026.
The warning was issued by Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi while appearing before the National Assembly’s Sports and Culture Committee. Mwangi urged lawmakers to act swiftly and ensure the funds are released before the March 30 deadline set by the Confederation of African Football.
Kenya at Risk as Neighbors Meet Requirements
Kenya is part of a historic joint hosting arrangement alongside Tanzania and Uganda for the 2027 AFCON tournament. However, both neighboring countries have already settled their hosting fees, placing Kenya in a vulnerable position.
Failure to meet the payment deadline could see CAF reconsider Kenya’s role in the tournament, potentially handing over hosting responsibilities solely to its regional partners.
Mwangi emphasized that CAF considers timely payment a clear sign of commitment.
“CAF are very particular that we must show commitment by contributing,” he told the committee.
Parliament Under Pressure to Act
The Sports PS called on Parliament to fast-track the release of funds through a supplementary budget in collaboration with the National Treasury.
The committee chair, Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama (assumed chairperson based on constituency), reassured Mwangi that legislators would push for urgent action to avoid embarrassment on the continental stage.
Lawmakers warned that losing hosting rights would not only affect Kenya financially but also damage its reputation as a regional leader.
“It will be a big shame to Kenya, which has always been a big brother in the region,” the chairperson stated.
Stadium Delays Raise More Concerns
Beyond the hosting fee, Kenya is also grappling with delays in infrastructure development. Several stadiums and training facilities earmarked for the tournament remain incomplete, largely due to unpaid contractors.
These delays have raised concerns about whether the country will meet CAF’s strict hosting standards in time.
With just about 15 months left before kickoff, the pressure is mounting on the government to accelerate preparations and restore confidence among stakeholders.
Countdown to AFCON 2027
The 2027 edition of AFCON is expected to kick off in July next year, marking the first time the tournament will be jointly hosted by three East African nations.
For Kenya, successfully hosting the tournament would be a major milestone, boosting tourism, infrastructure, and international visibility. However, failure to meet CAF’s financial and logistical requirements could see the country miss out on this historic opportunity.
As the March 30 deadline approaches, all eyes are now on the government and Parliament to determine whether Kenya will secure its place on Africa’s biggest football stage—or watch from the sidelines.