AFCON 2027: Denis Onyango Highlights Big Benefits as East Africa Prepares for Tournament

With exactly one year until the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027 kicks off, excitement is mounting across East Africa as co-hosts Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania prepare to stage the continent's premier football tournament.

This historic event marks the first time three nations will jointly host the AFCON, representing a significant milestone for the region and for African football as a whole.

Confidence is high following the successful staging of the recent CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) across the three countries.

The tournament was widely praised, offering a promising preview of the region's capability to host a major international competition.

Among the most vocal supporters of the event is Ugandan football legend Denis Onyango. The celebrated Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper, one of Africa's most respected players, views the tournament as a transformative moment for his home country and the entire region.

Speaking exclusively to CAFOnline.com, Onyango expressed his gratitude to the Confederation of African Football.

The veteran shot-stopper emphasised that AFCON 2027 is about more than just top-tier football. He believes its true value lies in the lasting legacy it will create for future generations.

"This milestone means a lot to me because hosting the biggest football show on the continent will provide more opportunities for football in Uganda to develop," Onyango explained.

"It will also help expose more talent to some of the biggest leagues in the world, and for me, that is one of the most important aspects of this tournament."

As a first-time host, Uganda stands to gain significantly, with Onyango highlighting infrastructure as a key benefit. He pointed to the development of new stadiums, training facilities, and broader sports investment as crucial long-term gains.

"Ugandan football will definitely benefit from co-hosting AFCON because we will have more sports facilities, new stadiums and training centres. This will not only help football but the entire sports sector," he noted.

Onyango also stressed the potential for widespread economic and social benefits, from upgraded roads and a booming hospitality sector to a surge in tourism. He sees the tournament as a catalyst for national and regional progress.

"Uganda as a country will also see more development, with new hotels and roads being constructed. Small businesses will benefit from tourists coming to watch the tournament," he added.

"The AFCON gives us the chance to show Africa and the world what Uganda is about. We have so much to offer, including places like the Source of the Nile."

Building on the success of the CHAN, Onyango challenged the host nations to set a new standard for the Africa Cup of Nations.

"We have to give Africa the best show," he declared. "This is the first time three countries are hosting AFCON, and we must be ready not only to match what previous host countries have done, but to do even better. I want Africa and the world to say East Africa delivered an exceptional tournament. A tournament with great hospitality, strong infrastructure and unforgettable football."

The CAF AFCON 2027 is scheduled to begin on June 19, with the final set for July 27, 2027.