AFCON 2027: FUFA President Magogo Calls on East Africa to Seize Historic Hosting Opportunity

FUFA President Moses Hassim Magogo has called on East Africa to fully embrace the historic opportunity of hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

His remarks came during the opening of the PAMOJA workshop at Mestil Hotel in Kampala on Wednesday.

Addressing delegates, Magogo extended a warm welcome, emphasising Uganda's role as a home for African football.

Magogo expressed deep gratitude to the governments of Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania for their commitment to the joint PAMOJA bid, which secured the hosting rights for the first time in the region's history.

"I want to thank the Government of Uganda... for having accepted our proposal to bid for AFCON," he said. "We approached the government, and the three Presidents... bought into the project. We brought our bid to the Confederation of African Football, and they awarded us the rights to host AFCON in 2027."

He highlighted the significance of this moment, noting that major continental tournaments have traditionally been held in other parts of Africa. "These things used to be seen elsewhere... in the north, west, and south of Africa, but not in East Africa," Magogo explained.

While acknowledging a lack of experience, the FUFA President voiced strong confidence in the region's ability to deliver a world-class tournament.

"What has never given me doubt is that, as East Africans, we can host these events. What we are lacking is the opportunity and the experience," he asserted.

Magogo stressed the importance of learning from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which possesses extensive experience in organising the tournament. He noted that the lessons learned will benefit not only the continental showpiece but also domestic competitions in the future.

Beyond the pitch, he framed AFCON 2027 as a powerful catalyst for regional integration. "This is an opportunity for East Africa and the East African Community," he said. "What an opportunity that our beloved game... is being used to bring East Africa together."

Magogo pointed to the broader social and economic benefits that hosting a major tournament brings, including a significant boost to tourism and national economies.

"Football is not going to be the same in this region after this tournament," he declared, recalling the positive impact of hosting the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

While optimistic, he also recognised the challenges ahead and underscored the region's commitment to learning and improving.

"We are going to be challenged. We want to learn from the Confederation of African Football... we want to listen," he said. "The objective is to make East Africa the best host Africa has ever had."

In closing, Magogo thanked CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe for his vision of providing hosting opportunities to all regions of the continent.