East Africa is gearing up for a historic football spectacle as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania prepare to jointly host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in August, marking the first time the prestigious tournament will be staged across the three neighbouring nations.
The competition will be played in 10 cities, with a mix of newly constructed and upgraded stadiums expected to deliver a memorable experience for players, officials, and fans across the continent.
Tanzania Ready with Four Venues
Tanzania will host matches in four cities, with the 60,000-capacity Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam serving as the headliner. Arusha will unveil the newly built 30,000-seat Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium, while the new Dodoma Stadium in the nation’s capital will accommodate 32,000 fans. Zanzibar’s Amaan Stadium, with a capacity of 15,000, completes the country’s hosting lineup.
Kenya Provides Five Host Cities
Kenya will boast the highest number of venues, with five cities selected. Nairobi will feature two major arenas — the newly constructed Talanta Sports Stadium (with a capacity of 60,000) and the Moi International Sports Centre (with a capacity of 55,000). The Nyayo National Stadium, also in the capital, holds 30,000 spectators. Outside Nairobi, Kakamega’s Bukhungu Stadium (25,000) and Eldoret’s Kipchoge Keino Stadium (15,000) will stage matches.
Uganda on the Tripartite
Uganda will welcome fans in three cities. The Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, with a capacity of 60,000, will serve as the country’s main venue. Newly built facilities in Hoima and Lira — Hoima City Stadium and Akii Bua Stadium — will each seat 20,000 spectators.
AFCON 2027 is expected to boost infrastructure development, tourism, and regional cooperation across East Africa. The tournament represents a major milestone for the region, which has long sought to host Africa’s biggest football event.
With modern stadiums, passionate fan bases, and strong government backing, the East African trio is positioning itself to deliver one of the most exciting editions of AFCON yet.