With exactly one year to go before the start of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania are already deep in preparation for what will be the first ever AFCON jointly hosted by three nations.
But for former Uganda captain and experienced goalkeeper Denis Onyango, the focus is not just on history being made, but on the standard East Africa must deliver to the rest of the continent.
Speaking about the upcoming tournament, Onyango said the opportunity carries both pride and responsibility, stressing that hosting Africa’s biggest football competition should be used to grow the game at every level.
“First of all, I would like to thank CAF for granting East Africa the opportunity to host some of the best footballers on the continent,” he said.
For Onyango, the meaning of AFCON 2027 goes far beyond the matches themselves. He believes it is a chance to unlock long term development in football, especially in Uganda, where he feels the impact will be felt by young players for years to come.
“This milestone means a lot to me because hosting the biggest football show on the continent will provide more opportunities for football in Uganda to develop,” he said.
“It will also help expose more talent to some of the biggest leagues in the world, and for me, that is one of the most important aspects of this tournament.”
He also pointed to the wider benefits that could come with co hosting, including improved infrastructure that could transform the sporting landscape in the region.
“Ugandan football will definitely benefit from co-hosting AFCON because we will have more sports facilities, new stadiums and training centres. This will not only help football but the entire sports sector”, said Uganda.
Beyond football, Onyango highlighted the potential economic and social gains, from tourism to transport and hospitality growth, saying the tournament could open up East Africa to the world in a major way.
“The tournament will also offer Uganda a global platform to showcase its culture, hospitality and natural attractions. We have so much to offer, including places like the Source of the Nile. The AFCON gives us the chance to show Africa and the world what Uganda is about.”
With Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania united under the Pamoja spirit, Onyango believes cooperation between the three countries will be key to success, especially in areas like infrastructure and connectivity.
He added that the shared hosting model could leave a lasting regional legacy if managed well, strengthening ties between the three nations while boosting economic activity across borders.
At the heart of his message, however, was a clear challenge to East Africa: raise the standard and deliver a tournament that the continent will remember.
“We have to give Africa the best show. This is the first time three countries are hosting AFCON, and we must be ready not only to match what previous host countries have done, but to do even better. I want Africa and the world to say East Africa delivered an exceptional tournament. A tournament with great hospitality, strong infrastructure and unforgettable football,” he concluded.
The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027 is set to kick off on 19 June 2027, with the final scheduled for 27 July 2027.
