Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya has assured Kenyans that the country is ready to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) dismissing claims that financial constraints could hinder readiness.
Speaking on Wednesday March 25, 2026, when he appeared before the Senate, CS Mvurya clarified that reports suggesting the government had not yet raised the required KSh3.9 billion hosting fee were inaccurate.
Over the past days, talks have emanated that Kenya might lose its hosting rights if the hosting fee is not paid by March 30, this year.
“As Kenya also prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations, which we will be hosting together with Uganda and Tanzania, I know over the last few days there have been a lot of reports here and there,” he commented.
“I want to assure all Kenyans and international stakeholders, including the Confederation of African Football (CAF), that Kenya is ready to host AFCON,” said Mvurya.
The CS stated that the hosting fee is part of the broader preparation process and should not pose a problem, as the government has put in place mechanisms to ensure it is covered.
He reiterated that his ministry is working closely with the Treasury and the relevant parliamentary committees to ensure all obligations are met within the stipulated timelines.
“The matters of financing and hosting fees are part of the preparation process. I want to assure you that we are already engaging very closely with our Committee of Parliament. We are also engaging the National Treasury, and there is no doubt we will be able to meet our obligation,” he stated.
Mvurya’s reassurances come after Principal Secretary for Sports, Elijah Mwangi, confirmed that Kenya has not yet paid the hosting fee. The country is required to raise 30 million US dollars (about KSh 3.9 billion) by 30 March 2026.
Speaking before Parliament’s Sports Committee on Friday, 20 March, Mwangi noted that CAF had emphasized that timely payment of the hosting fee is a key indicator of Kenya’s commitment to hosting the continental tournament.
“CAF are very particular that we must show commitment by contributing. So I am seeking this Committee to kindly consider this Supplementary Budget in conjunction with the Treasury to have the 2026/2027 budget brought forward,” Mwangi said.
