OPINION: Uganda will require a strategic PR media campaign for AFCON 2027

Uganda's delegation with CAF President Patrice Motsepe. (CAF Media).

FOOTBALL OPINION: Uganda will require a strategic PR media campaign for AFCON 2027

Peter Tabu • 10:30 - 08.10.2023

Currently, the primary focus of the three host nations is on ensuring that all the facilities outlined in the bid are in place before the tournament.

The PAMOJA AFCON 2027 bid’s recent success, securing Uganda’s hosting rights for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations showpiece in collaboration with Kenya and Tanzania, marks a significant achievement for Ugandan football and sports as a whole.

Currently, the primary focus of the three host nations is on ensuring that all the facilities outlined in the bid are in place before the tournament.

Nevertheless, in addition to the infrastructure, Uganda must initiate a dynamic and strategic public relations media campaign in preparation for the event.

Media plays a pivotal role in shaping the global perception and engagement with sports.

Television, radio, print, and online media platforms have vast audiences and wield influence, both positively and negatively.

It is imperative for all three nations, particularly Uganda, to craft a well-thought-out media PR campaign that rallies the country’s support for the cause as early as possible.

It’s no secret that support for the men’s national team, the Uganda Cranes, has waned over time, exacerbated by their inability to host home games due to the lack of a certified FIFA/CAF stadium.

This perception is not solely tied to the team’s performance but also the fans’ perspective.

Between 2008 and 2013, MTN Uganda, then sponsors of the national team, created numerous memorable taglines that resonated with fans, turning Cranes games into festivals.

Social Media

Undoubtedly, social media offers powerful tools for promoting sporting events and fostering emotional connections between athletes and fans.

However, it’s crucial to collaborate with influential figures on various social media platforms who can generate increased attention for the AFCON 2027 campaign.

The creation of engaging campaign phrases, hashtags, and themes that can easily rally public support for AFCON 2027 should commence early.

Achieving this requires assembling a team of experienced media experts who are in sync with current trends.

Major tournaments worldwide always feature well-financed strategic PR campaigns, attracting sponsorships and goodwill essential for success.

It’s essential to emphasize that these campaigns are backed by substantial financial resources, with experts compensated to ensure they deliver the desired results.

The sooner Uganda assembles a proficient team, the better it will be for the entire region.

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