Football

AFCON 2027: Ababu Namwamba and Nick Mwendwa unveil ambitious plans

Sports CS Ababu Namwamba and FKF President Nick Mwendwa © MOYAS

By Rama Mohammed | Thursday, February 15, 2024

Kenya is gearing up for a historic moment as it prepares to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027 alongside Uganda and Tanzania. In a recent meeting with the Sports and Culture Committee, Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba of the Ministry of Sports and President Nick Mwendwa of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) shared intricate details of their plans to ensure a successful tournament.

Kenya is abuzz with anticipation as it embarks on a journey to co-host the prestigious AFCON 2027 tournament. According to Sports and Culture Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, the government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a remarkable event.

Infrastructure Overhaul

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Kenya is undergoing a massive overhaul of its sporting infrastructure to meet the rigorous standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) according to Nambwamba.

"We're fully committed to delivering top-notch facilities for AFCON 2027," affirmed Namwamba. "Our aim is to create a lasting legacy that will elevate African football to new heights."

Part of the facilities that will undergo massive refurbishments ahead of AFCON 2027 are Nyayo National Stadium and Kasarani. Ababu also revealed that the all new Talanta Sports City Stadium along Ngong Road would be ready before the continental showpiece.

CS Ababu; "We are upgrading our sporting infrastructure to International standards as part of our master plan to co-host the AFCON’27 with Uganda and Tanzania.” pic.twitter.com/E8hbt8wdaC
— Min. of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports (@moyasa_ke) February 15, 2024

President Mwendwa echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of modernizing stadiums and training grounds to provide an exceptional experience for players and fans alike.

"We're investing in our infrastructure to showcase Kenya's potential as a leading footballing nation," stated Mwendwa.

Team Preparation

In tandem with infrastructure development, Harambee Stars, Kenya's national football team, is also undergoing strategic planning under the watchful eye of the FKF.

"We're leaving no stone unturned in preparing Harambee Stars for AFCON 2027," declared Mwendwa. "Friendly matches against formidable opponents serve as invaluable preparation for the challenges ahead."

CS Ababu: We do not want our Harambee Stars to merely participate, We want them to compete. As a Government, we are ready to support them fully.” pic.twitter.com/iLuTc9eGOR
— Min. of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports (@moyasa_ke) February 15, 2024

Cabinet Secretary Namwamba highlighted the importance of nurturing talent at all levels, emphasizing the government's commitment to youth development programs.

"Talent development is at the heart of our strategy," stated Namwamba. "We're dedicated to empowering the next generation of football stars through initiatives like the Talanta Hela Initiative."

Strategic Partnerships

Furthermore, Namwamba and Mwendwa emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders and international partners to ensure the success of AFCON 2027.

"We're working closely with stakeholders to harness their expertise and resources," noted Namwamba. "Together, we're building a platform for African football to thrive."

President Mwendwa echoed this sentiment, stressing the significance of unity in achieving shared goals. "Collaboration is key to our success," affirmed Mwendwa. "Through strategic partnerships, we're laying the foundation for a memorable and impactful tournament."