Motsepe Establishes Oversight Committee to Expedite AFCON 2027 Preparations

Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), along with the Sports Ministers and Football Federation Presidents from Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, have approved the establishment of an oversight committee for the organization of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This decision was made during a working meeting held in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.

The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate preparations for hosting the continental tournament, amidst controversy surrounding the readiness of the three host nations.

The meeting was attended by several government and sports officials, including Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya; Tanzania's Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda; Uganda's Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang; as well as the Presidents of the respective football federations of the three countries, and CAF Acting General Secretary, Samson Adamu.

Participants signed a joint resolution to establish a tournament oversight committee, which is set to commence its duties immediately. Its responsibilities will include providing strategic guidance, facilitating joint coordination, and monitoring various preparations related to the organization of the continental championship.

Furthermore, according to the agreed roadmap, the three nations committed to achieving a set of key objectives before the end of next August. These include accelerating stadium and infrastructure development, identifying host venues and operational plans, and enhancing cross-border coordination regarding visas, immigration, customs, and movement.

The commitments also encompass strengthening safety and security measures, medical preparations, and providing various essential services and infrastructure necessary to ensure the successful organization of the African tournament.