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A two-day workshop was held in Nairobi to strategize counter-terrorism measures and secure East Africa’s AFCON 2027 tournament.
On December 2, a significant workshop convened in Nairobi, bringing together counter-terrorism experts, security agencies, and stakeholders from the sports sector to ensure robust security for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.
The meeting, hosted by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in partnership with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), sought to develop a coordinated approach to safeguarding one of the continent's biggest sporting events.
With the tournament set to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the stakes could not be higher.
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The urgency of securing the event became evident as participants explored the growing threat of terrorism in the region.
Sports, particularly major international tournaments like AFCON, attract large crowds and global attention, making them vulnerable to violent extremism.
The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas on strengthening safety measures and creating an environment of peace during the tournament.
"Major sporting events play a significant role in empowering communities, including engaging underprivileged individuals. East Africa is rich in sports heritage, and this workshop is vital for uniting stakeholders to share knowledge and insights," said Alex Tumushabe, Director of Planning and Policy at Uganda’s National Counter-Terrorism Centre as per Standard.
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Tumushabe emphasized that while the threat of terrorism is real, sports can serve as a powerful tool for social cohesion and collective strength.
The focus of the workshop was not just on the immediate security concerns but also on long-term strategies to mitigate the risk of extremism.
Richard Apau, a systems analyst at the African Union Counter-Terrorism Centre, highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding terrorism.
In 2023 alone, 68 percent of terrorist attacks globally resulted in over 15,000 fatalities. By November 30, there had already been nearly 4,000 terrorist incidents recorded worldwide.
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These figures serve as a stark reminder of the critical need for comprehensive security measures to ensure that major events like AFCON 2027 are not hijacked by those with ill intentions.
The threat posed by violent extremism is not just a matter of physical safety but also one of social harmony.
Sporting events have the power to bring together people from diverse backgrounds, but this very unity also makes them prime targets for extremists.
During the workshop, participants reflected on the vulnerability of large gatherings and the role of sports in countering radicalization, especially in vulnerable communities.
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The idea is that by engaging youth and marginalized groups through sports, they can be given opportunities to build positive futures, reducing the appeal of extremist ideologies.
"Participants explored insights, challenges and actionable recommendations to ensure a safe AFCON 2027," said Tumushabe in a separate interview.
It is clear that the region’s commitment to a secure and inclusive tournament extends beyond just physical barriers and law enforcement. It’s about harnessing the power of sports to create lasting societal change.
Kibiego Kigen, the Director of NCTC, echoed the need for unity in the fight against terrorism, stressing the importance of a multisectoral approach.
The preparations for AFCON 2027 signal a new chapter in how East Africa approaches counter-terrorism in the context of major global events.
The workshop is just the beginning of what promises to be an ongoing effort to ensure that the tournament not only brings footballing glory to the region but also stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and the shared dream of a peaceful future.
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