Uganda wants to host either the opening or closing ceremony of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, signalling a push to take a central role in one of football’s biggest global events.
Speaking at a press briefing, the Local Organising Committee confirmed that UShs 109.9 billion has been allocated to drive tournament-specific preparations, including readiness to stage one of the two flagship ceremonies.
The funding will cover key operational areas such as safety and security, branding, hospitality, team services, spectator experience, medical readiness and media operations, all aimed at delivering a world-class event.
Dr Dennis K. Mugimba, Chairperson of the LOC Communications and Signage Sub-Committee, outlined the scale of the plan.
“UShs.109.9 billion shall be allocated to the AFCON-2027 Local Organizing Committee to implement various tournament specific preparations across its thirteen sub-committees, plus preparations for hosting either the opening or closing ceremony for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON PAMOJA 2027.”
Uganda is co-hosting the tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania, and securing either ceremony would elevate its role within the three-nation arrangement.
Both events are broadcast to a global audience of millions and are key platforms for showcasing culture, tourism and national identity.
The move also reflects lessons from the 2024 African Nations Championship, where Uganda, despite co-hosting with Kenya and Tanzania, did not stage either the opening or closing ceremony and instead hosted the third-place playoff.
Preparations for 2027 are already underway, with stadium upgrades, hotel developments, airport expansions and hospital improvements all being accelerated towards a January deadline.
