PAMOJA BID: Why it is important for East Africa to Embrace AFCON 2027

CAF President Patrice Motsepe confirming East Africa will host AFCON in 2027 | CAF Image

FOOTBALL PAMOJA BID: Why it is important for East Africa to Embrace AFCON 2027

Clive Kyazze • 06:58 - 02.10.2023

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set to be a pivotal event for East Africa, with Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania serving as proud hosts.

The spotlight this tournament brings is crucial for every East African, offering a unique opportunity to foster regional unity and showcase the vibrant cultures and burgeoning potential of these nations.

Regional unity and pride

The co-hosting of the tournament by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania is poised to bolster regional unity and pride.

This collaboration promises to be a cornerstone for strengthening relationships and fostering camaraderie amongst the East African nations, setting a precedent for future partnerships in events of such magnitude.

Tourism and economic impact

The introduction of a regional tourism visa is a ground breaking initiative aimed at facilitating seamless travel across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

This innovative approach is expected to spur tourism, allowing visitors to explore the myriad of cultures, landmarks, and natural attractions that define East Africa, thereby promoting the region as a premier travel destination.

The economic windfall from the tournament is bound to be substantial.

With heightened tourism comes a cascade of economic benefits, impacting various sectors and trickling down to every stratum of the business ecosystem.

Ugandan football fans cheer the Cranes at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole | Daily Monitor Image

Retail and supermarkets: The anticipated influx of visitors will lead to elevated demand for local products, essentials, and souvenirs, thereby ramping up sales for local retailers and supermarkets.

Transportation services: The transportation sector, especially local taxi and cab services, is set to thrive with the skyrocketing demand for transit solutions during the event.

MV Mwanza the largest cruise vessel on Lake Victoria | photo Credit: Courtesy

Hospitality sector: The surge in visitors necessitates extensive accommodation solutions, offering a lucrative window for hotels and lodges to optimize occupancy rates and profits.

Street traders and markets: Street vendors and local markets stand to gain significantly as attendees delve into local goods and produce.

Nightlife and dining: The entertainment and food industry, encompassing salons, nightclubs, and restaurants, is geared up for increased patronage, promising a bustling atmosphere throughout the event.

Kabalagala in Kampala is a hotbed of activity at night | Photo Credit: Courtesy

Fashion retail: The fashion sector, particularly boutiques and local stores, will experience a surge in demand for indigenous designs and attire, celebrating the diverse fashion tapestry of the region.

Infrastructure and international recognition

The preparations for AFCON 2027 will catalyze infrastructural advancements, including enhancements to stadiums, transport networks, and hospitality facilities, leaving a lasting legacy for the host countries.

Beyond immediate economic gains, the event serves as a platform to elevate the international profile of the host nations, potentially unlocking more diplomatic and economic opportunities and placing East Africa on the global map.

The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. (TFF media).

Unrivalled opportunity

Given the myriad benefits and the unrivalled opportunity to showcase East Africa to the world, the call is to everyone, irrespective of their business domain, to rally behind this initiative.

AFCON 2027 is not merely a celebration of football; it is a collective endeavor to highlight the rich cultures, warm hospitality, and untapped potentials of East Africa.

Uganda Cranes fans cheer on their national team | Photo Credit: Courtesy

From restaurant owners to market stall operators, everyone has a role in ensuring the shared success and prosperity emanating from this grand event.

Monumental strides

The hosting of AFCON 2027 is a monumental stride for East Africa, offering a platform for unity, cultural exchange, and international acknowledgment.

The combined efforts of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, supplemented by the innovative regional tourism visa, are set to propel the region into a new era of tourism and economic resurgence.

From L-R: FUFA President Moses Magogo, deptuty Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, CAF President Patrice Motsepe and State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang in Cairo Egypt after the annoucement the sucessful Pamoja Bid

It’s a clarion call for every East African to support this noble initiative, embracing the spirit of togetherness and shared prosperity for the betterment of the entire region.

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