Uganda’s Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 has urged accommodation providers to begin preparations immediately, warning that delays could see them miss out on early bookings from visiting fans.
With Uganda expected to receive at least 500,000 visitors for the tournament, the LOC says hotels, apartments, lodges and Airbnb operators should now secure authorisation from the Uganda Tourism Board to position themselves for demand that typically builds months in advance.
Dr Dennis K. Mugimba, Chairperson of the Communications and Signage Sub-Committee, said booking patterns for major sporting events leave little room for late preparation.
“Typically, sports tourists start booking their accommodation about six to twelve months before a tournament. AFCON-2027 is only fourteen months away! Therefore, this is the right time for proprietors of prospective accommodation facilities such as Airbnb services to start by acquiring the necessary information from the Uganda Tourism Board about authorisation to offer such a tourist service.”
The LOC also pointed to wider economic opportunities linked to the tournament, urging businesses across sectors to prepare early. These include transport services for tours and transfers, as well as tourism experiences built around Uganda’s culture, cuisine and entertainment.
Organisers further highlighted potential in merchandise and souvenir sales tied to Uganda and PAMOJA branding, alongside restaurants, leisure venues and fan zones expected to cater for supporters without match tickets.
Technology and finance services are also expected to play a key role, with demand anticipated for high-speed internet, cashless payment systems, ticketing solutions and currency exchange services during the competition.
The LOC said additional opportunities will be outlined once the official AFCON-2027 work plan is confirmed, but stressed that early preparation will be critical for businesses seeking to benefit from the tournament.
