Inspection reports highlight major shortcomings
Fresh concerns have emerged over the readiness of Africa Cup of Nations 2027, with inspection reports revealing significant infrastructure deficiencies across host nations Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
According to findings from committees dispatched by Confederation of African Football earlier this year, several proposed venues and facilities fall short of the organisation’s required standards, raising the possibility of a postponement of the tournament, currently scheduled for June and July 2027.
CAF to Reassess Progress
Sources indicate that CAF’s executive body has scheduled a fresh round of inspections for August, when delegations will revisit the three host nations to evaluate progress on stadium infrastructure, accommodation and training facilities.
A final decision on whether the tournament will proceed as planned is expected by December 2026, leaving host countries under increasing pressure to accelerate development.
“Disastrous” Preparations in Key Countries
Particular concern has been raised over preparations in Kenya and Uganda. Inspection reports described conditions in both countries as falling significantly below the fourth-category standards required to host major international matches.
In Uganda, no proposed stadium has yet met CAF’s criteria. Infrastructure projects remain in various stages of construction, redesign and modernisation, creating uncertainty over their completion timelines.
Stadium Challenges in Kenya
In Kenya, delays have further complicated preparations. Renovation work at Rani Stadium is reportedly more than six months behind schedule, while Nyayo Stadium—originally expected to close following the Rugby World Cup—remains operational and continues to host domestic competitions.
CAF had initially set a three-month deadline for addressing critical issues during a February inspection. However, a planned follow-up visit in May was postponed, with authorities opting instead for a unified inspection in August.
Structural and Design Issues in Uganda
In Uganda, the inspection reports identified multiple technical shortcomings at Homa City Stadium, a newly constructed venue intended for the tournament. Despite being structurally complete, the stadium requires substantial redesign.
Key concerns include inadequate separation between spectator categories, poorly organised media and VIP areas, and substandard facilities for referees and players. Additionally, the layout of seating has been criticised for obstructing visibility.
The Mandela National Stadium in the capital Kampala also requires significant upgrades. Although redevelopment plans are in place—including expansion works and roof replacement—the current timeline is not aligned with CAF’s deadline.
Training Facilities Also Under Scrutiny
Beyond stadiums, training infrastructure across multiple regions—including Kampala, Nairobi and Homa—has been flagged as inconsistent and, in many cases, below required standards.
Inspection teams noted that several proposed training sites do not meet CAF’s technical criteria, adding another layer of concern to the overall readiness of the host nations.
Decision Looms Over Tournament Timeline
A CAF official indicated that the organisation will rely heavily on the August inspection reports before determining the fate of the tournament.
With less than two years remaining before the scheduled kick-off, the coming months are expected to be decisive in shaping whether the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations can proceed as planned or face delays.
Race Against Time for Hosts
The situation presents a critical challenge for Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, all of whom have expressed strong intent to successfully host the tournament.
However, with infrastructure gaps, delayed timelines and stringent standards to meet, the hosts now face a race against time to deliver on their commitments—or risk seeing one of Africa’s premier football events postponed.
