Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba has revealed that the government is ready to spend four billion shillings to host the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking on Thursday during an interview on Citizen TV, Ababu stated that Kenya’s joint bid with Uganda and Tanzania to host the 2027 AFCON will require a total of twelve billion shillings ($90 million) that will be paid to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“We have made our bid as East Africa and we have already divided the total amount and agreed with Tanzania and Uganda sports ministers that everyone contributes four billion shillings ($30 million). The money will be paid if our bid is successful,” Namwamba stated.
The Sports CS also stated that the government plans to use Kasarani and Nyayo stadia for AFCON if the bid is accepted by CAF.
He however noted that one billion shillings will be spent to upgrade Nyayo Stadium to international standards.
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“Nyayo Stadium has old flood flights that have become obsolete, we will need to install modern ones so that matches can be played even at night. The stadium is also a canopy, only the VIP section is covered, we plan to cover the rest of the stadium. We will also introduce a ticketing system that will correspond to seat numbers,” he added.
President William Ruto on May 15 announced that Kenya had made a joint bid with Uganda and Tanzania to host the 2027 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Head of State noted that the submission is part of the Government’s plan to harness skills and talents.
“We are focussed on harnessing the full potential of each sector for our prosperity," Ruto stated.
Appreciating Kenya’s rich sporting and creative talent, President Ruto explained that the sector has a potential to stimulate economic growth.
“This sector is a giant wellspring of opportunities. We will ensure we place Kenya on its rightful position as a sporting superpower," he said.