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But it's not just about the game; hosting AFCON offers the tantalizing promise of economic growth, infrastructure advancement, and an amplified presence on the global stage for the region.
As the heartbeat of African football starts resonating with the anticipation of future Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, East and Central Africa are not mere spectators.
The Council for East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) is preparing to play its ace in the form of the "Pamoja Bid", with Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania vying for the honour of hosting AFCON 2027.
The vision for East Africa, is bold. CECAFA boss Auka Gacheo, in his conversation with FUFA TV, emphasized the unity within the association, stressing the region's earnest ambition to host the prestigious tournament.
"There is a huge probability as a region (Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania) that we stand a chance,” he said.
“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."
The gravity of this bid is heightened by history. Kenya, with the weight of its past experience in 1996 when its bid was declined due to unpreparedness, brings a renewed determination this time.
With the lessons from history and collective regional synergy, CECAFA seems set on ensuring the shortcomings of yesteryears are not repeated.
However, the path to achieving this dream is lined with challenges. One glaring issue that East African nations grapple with is the availability of stadiums and facilities that align with CAF's stringent standards.
Recognizing this, CAF authorities have undertaken visits to all bidding nations to gauge their readiness for AFCON 2027.
But it's not just about the game; hosting AFCON offers the tantalizing promise of economic growth, infrastructure advancement, and an amplified presence on the global stage for the region.
While the stakes are high and the outcome for the 2025 and 2027 AFCON hosts eagerly awaited, CECAFA's aspirations embody the spirit of African football – united, resilient, and forever aiming higher.
As fans await the next AFCON showcase in Ivory Coast come 2024, the hope is that the winds of football soon blow favourably towards the East, where a region is ready to unite and dazzle the world.
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