CECAFA boss Gacheo confident in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda's AFCON bid

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FOOTBALL CECAFA boss Gacheo confident in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda's AFCON bid

Festus Chuma 10:26 - 17.08.2023

East African nations are collaborating to overcome challenges in pursuit of hosting glory.

The Council for East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) boss Auka Gacheo, has expressed strong optimism about the potential benefits that the region could reap from hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.

CECAFA members Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda have recently submitted bids to host the prestigious football tournament, and Gacheo believes that the collective effort could bring a momentous sporting event to East Africa.

In an interview with FUFA TV, Gacheo highlighted the unity and determination within CECAFA as they work towards a shared goal.

 "There is a huge probability as a region (Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania) that we stand a chance," he stated. "As CECAFA, we are going around looking at the logistics and admin side of things on how we can host such a big tournament successfully if we get the opportunity."

This bid marks Kenya's second attempt at hosting the AFCON finals. In 1996, the nation made a bid, but it was rejected due to perceived unreadiness.

One of the challenges faced by East African nations is the lack of adequate facilities and stadiums that meet CAF standards.

The issue has been acknowledged by CAF authorities, who have visited all applicants to assess their preparedness for the AFCON 2027 tournament. 

The hosting of such an event could potentially bring various benefits to the region, including economic growth, infrastructure development, and enhanced global recognition. 

While the decision on the hosts for the 2025 and 2027 AFCON finals is pending, the excitement and anticipation within the CECAFA region remain palpable.

 The next AFCON tournament is scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast in January and February of 2024.

CECAFA members, along with Algeria, Botswana, and Egypt, have all registered their interest in hosting future editions of the tournament.