Kenya has remitted Ksh 3.9 billion in hosting fees
NAIROBI, Kenya – March 31, 2026 – Kenya has officially signaled its readiness to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027) after the government fulfilled its major financial obligations to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
In a press statement released today, the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Hon. Salim Mvurya, confirmed that Kenya has remitted USD 30 million (approx. Sh3.9 billion) in hosting fees to the continental football governing body.
The move is seen as a massive “credibility boost” for the Pamoja Bid, which Kenya is co-hosting alongside neighbors Uganda and Tanzania.
Restructured AFCON 2027 Local Organizing Committee
Beyond the financial commitment, the government has moved to streamline the tournament’s management by forming a restructured Multi-Agency Local Organizing Committee (LOC).
According to CS Mvurya, the new team draws expertise from both the public and private sectors to tackle the “scale, complexity, and urgency” of the continental showpiece.
The team, which blends football expertise with administrative heavyweights, will be chaired by the retained Nicholas Musonye, with Hussein Mohammed serving as Vice-Chairman and Anthony Lung’aho Inzihuli as the Head of Secretariat/CEO.
The extensive committee features prominent figures including FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga, Nairobi United boss Osman Abdi, KBC Managing Director Agnes Kalekye, and former Gor Mahia CEO Lordvick Aduda. Other key members include June Chepkemei, Dr. Doreen Odhiambo (KAS CEO), and a host of FKF NEC members including Robert Macharia and Dan Shikanda. This multi-sectoral team is tasked with ensuring Kenya’s institutional capacity aligns with the scale of the tournament.
“This milestone reflects the firm commitment of H.E. President William Ruto to position Kenya as a premier destination for global sporting events,” Mvurya stated.
Infrastructure Overhaul
Following a recent CAF inspection report, the Ministry has announced an “accelerated implementation” phase to meet international standards.
Key areas of focus will fast-tracked construction and upgrading of match venues and training facilities as well as enhancing transport and logistics systems. Furthermore, upgrading security and broadcast standards to meet global requirements.
In a move to make AFCON 2027 a truly “East African” experience, the co-hosting nations will meet next month on April 26 to harmonize border protocols.
Fans, teams, and officials can look forward to visa facilitation mechanisms aimed at enabling ease of movement across borders. The government also plans to implement coordinated tax exemptions and streamlined customs procedures for all AFCON-related goods and services.
“We remain fully committed to delivering a world-class AFCON 2027 that will not only meet but exceed continental and global expectations,” the CS concluded.
By Mark Kinyanjui
