Currently on a four-day visit to Kisumu, a stronghold of opposition leader Raila Odinga and a hub for football talent in Kenya, Ruto emphasized the significance of the city in the nation's football landscape.
President Ruto has endorsed Kisumu County to be one of the hosts for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) football matches.
Currently on a four-day visit to Kisumu, a stronghold of opposition leader Raila Odinga and a hub for football talent in Kenya, Ruto emphasized the significance of the city in the nation's football landscape.
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Currently, the primary focus of the three host nations is on ensuring that all the facilities outlined in the bid are in place before the tournament.
"Kisumu's role in hosting some of the tournaments that will be held across the country has been recognized," Ruto remarked.
This decision comes on the heels of a request made by Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o and his Kakamega counterpart, Fernandez Barasa, seeking the privilege to host the tournament in their respective regions.
Kisumu boasts two stadiums, the Moi Stadium and the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium. Both venues will necessitate substantial renovations to meet the standards.
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With preparations in full swing, all eyes are now on whether Mombasa, with its rich history and cultural charm, will grace the 2027 AFCON's itinerary.
Additionally, the city is equipped with an international airport and a range of four- and five-star accommodations.
While Nairobi and Eldoret have already been selected as primary host cities, Kisumu, as Kenya's third-largest city situated on the banks of Lake Victoria, is now being recognized as a potential host.
Kenya, in collaboration with neighbouring Tanzania and Uganda, secured the 2027 AFCON hosting rights through their joint "PAMOJA" bid.
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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.
They triumphed over esteemed football nations such as Egypt, Nigeria, and Botswana.
In preparation for this prestigious event, all three countries have launched ambitious projects to either upgrade existing stadiums or construct new ones.
In Kenya, renovation plans are in place for the Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums in Nairobi, as well as the Kipchoge Keino stadium in Eldoret.
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However, in a September announcement, there emerged a glimmer of hope for Ugandan sports enthusiasts, courtesy of President Yoweri Museveni’s support for the construction of a cutting-edge sports complex at Lugogo and his backing of the East Africa PAMOJA initiative.
This marks a historic moment, as it's the inaugural occasion that these three East African countries have automatically qualified as hosts for Africa's premier football event.