The Confederation of African Football (CAFF) has kicked off a count down, marking exactly one year to the kick-off of the historic TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) PAMOJA 2027, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from 19 June to 17 July 2027.
Uganda also joins the rest of Africa in this memorable milestone, and for the first time in the country’s history, Uganda will host matches of Africa’s premier football tournament, a milestone that reflects the nation’s growing capacity to stage major international sporting events and its commitment to advancing sports infrastructure and tourism.
The tournament, themed “PAMOJA,” the Swahili word for “Together,” symbolizes the spirit of unity, cooperation and shared prosperity among the three East African nations and across the African continent.
With 365 days remaining before kick-off, excitement continues to build as Uganda intensifies preparations to welcome thousands of athletes, officials, media personnel and football fans from across Africa and beyond.
Uganda’s Readiness for AFCON 2027
The Government of Uganda, through the AFCON 2027 Local Organising Committee (LOC) and various implementing agencies, continues to make significant progress in preparations for the tournament.
Key investments are underway in sports infrastructure, transport connectivity, healthcare services, hospitality facilities, security systems and other critical sectors to ensure Uganda delivers a successful and memorable tournament experience.
The redevelopment of key sporting facilities, including the Mandela National Stadium- Namboole, and designated training venues, forms part of a broader national effort to meet the standards required for hosting Africa’s biggest football event.
In addition, strategic investments in road infrastructure, healthcare facilities and tourism promotion are expected to leave a lasting legacy that will benefit Ugandans long after the tournament concludes.
Road to AFCON 2027
The journey to the finals has already commenced following the conclusion of the AFCON 2027 Qualifiers Draw held in Cairo in May 2026.
While Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania have secured automatic qualification as host nations, they will participate in the qualification campaign in accordance with CAF regulations.
The qualification matches will be played during the following FIFA international windows:
- Matchdays 1 & 2: 21 September – 6 October 2026
- Matchdays 3 & 4: 9 – 17 November 2026
- Matchdays 5 & 6: 22 – 30 March 2027
Twenty-four nations will ultimately compete for Africa’s most prestigious football title at the finals.
A Historic Opportunity for Uganda
AFCON PAMOJA 2027 represents more than football. It is an opportunity to showcase Uganda’s hospitality, culture, tourism attractions and investment potential to a global audience.
As preparations continue over the next twelve months, Uganda remains committed to working closely with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Governments of Kenya and Tanzania, and all stakeholders to deliver a world-class tournament that reflects the passion, excellence and aspirations of Africa.
The countdown has begun.
One Year to Go. One Region. One Dream. PAMOJA.
