Kenya’s government has moved to calm growing concerns over its readiness to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Uganda and Tanzania, after delays in paying a key hosting fee.
Kenya is yet to pay Ksh 3.9 billion required as a commitment fee to secure hosting rights, with the deadline set for March 30.
According to a report by Capital FM, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said authorities are working to resolve the issue through a supplementary budget process involving the National Treasury and Parliament.
“I wish to reaffirm that the Government of Kenya remains fully committed to the successful hosting of Afcon 2027. The ministry is working very closely with the National Treasury and National Assembly to address pending financial requirements through the supplementary budget process ensuring that we remain firmly on course in our preparations,” Mvurya said.
The developments are significant for Uganda, which is co-hosting the tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania under the East African Pamoja bid.
Concerns first emerged after Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi told Parliament that the fee had not yet been paid, raising fears that Kenya could risk losing hosting rights if deadlines are missed.
There are also infrastructure concerns. Renovation works at Nyayo National Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani have stalled due to unpaid contractors.
At Nyayo Stadium, the contractor reportedly left site over unpaid dues of Ksh 2.9 billion, while at Kasarani, work has slowed significantly because of arrears amounting to Ksh 3.7 billion.
For Uganda, any delays in Kenya’s preparations could have wider implications for the joint hosting plans, given the shared responsibilities across the three countries.
However, Mvurya insists Kenya remains on track and views upcoming test events as part of the build-up. The country is set to host a four-nation women’s FIFA international friendly tournament in April, which he says will help assess readiness ahead of AFCON 2027.
The tournament will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, building on the same partnership that delivered the 2024 African Nations Championship.
