The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has commenced a series of stadium and infrastructure inspections in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda as preparations intensify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The three East African nations secured the rights to host the tournament under the banner PAMOJA 2027, defeating a rival joint bid from Nigeria and the Benin Republic. The 2027 edition will mark a historic first for the region as well as the final tournament under CAF’s current biennial format.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe previously announced that following the 2027 competition, the AFCON will transition to a four-year cycle, with the next edition scheduled for 2028.
The inspection exercise, led by CAF’s technical experts, began this week and is expected to run until Tuesday, February 17. The review covers key match venues and training facilities, focusing on pitch standards, safety protocols, security measures and overall infrastructure readiness.
According to CAF, the inspections form part of a broader initiative to elevate standards across African football and ensure world-class delivery of the continent’s flagship tournament.
“CAF’s inspections form part of a broader strategy to raise standards on and off the pitch across African football,” the governing body stated. “These efforts also support CAF’s objective of building a stronger and more self-sustaining football ecosystem on the continent.”
In Tanzania, inspections began in Dar es Salaam, including visits to the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and designated training sites. The delegation will also assess facilities in Arusha and Zanzibar, including Samia Suluhu Stadium, Amaan Stadium and Fumba Stadium.
Kenya’s inspection schedule includes major venues in Nairobi such as Kasarani Stadium, Nyayo Stadium and Talanta Sports Stadium. Training facilities including the Ulinzi Sports Complex and the Kenya Academy of Sports are also under review.
Uganda’s programme features visits to Mandela National Stadium in Kampala and other designated training grounds. The CAF team will also inspect Hoima City Stadium in Hoima and facilities in Entebbe.
CAF has reiterated its commitment to working closely with the host governments and Local Organising Committees to ensure that preparations remain on track for what is expected to be a landmark tournament in East African football history.
With less than two years to kickoff, the inspection tour signals a critical step in delivering a successful and globally competitive AFCON 2027.
