Senegalese President Diomaye Faye in talks with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi on October 21, 2025/PCSPresident William Ruto has welcomed Senegal’s support as Kenya gears up to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (AfCON) in 2027.
According to Ruto, the partnership between the two nations will help strengthen sports development, youth empowerment, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
Speaking Tuesday at State House, Nairobi, during the official visit of Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President Ruto said Kenya was keen to tap into Senegal’s vast experience in African football, both on and off the pitch.
“As Kenya prepares to co-host AFCON 2027, we welcome Senegal’s support and experience in hosting and excelling in continental football tournaments,” he said.
“We look forward to learning from Senegal’s expertise in infrastructure development, event management, and building lasting sports legacies.”
The deal between the two countries, he said, would explore joint initiatives as exchange programmes for coaches and athletes, co-hosting regional tournaments, and establishing joint training camps.
“By combining Kenya’s strength in athletics and Senegal’s prowess in football, we aim to uplift our youth and enhance cultural diplomacy,” he said.
Senegal, one of Africa’s football powerhouses, has a rich footballing history.
The country hosted the Africa Cup of Nations in 1992, where it showcased its ability to organise a continental sporting event successfully.
Over the years, Senegal’s national team, the Teranga Lions, has excelled on the global stage, winning the AFCON title in 2021 and finishing as runners-up in 2019.
The team has also represented Africa impressively at the FIFA World Cup, reaching the quarterfinals in 2002 and the Round of 16 in 2022.
President Ruto said Kenya stands to benefit immensely from Senegal’s experience in managing successful football programmes and developing world-class sports infrastructure.
AfCON 2027 will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marking the first time East Africa will stage Africa’s biggest football tournament since its inception in 1957.
The competition is expected to take place between June and July 2027, bringing together 24 nations from across the continent.
Kenya has already begun preparations to upgrade key stadiums, including Kasarani, Nyayo, and Kip Keino Stadiums, to meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards.
The government has also pledged to invest in training facilities and transport infrastructure ahead of the tournament.
Faye is in the country on a official visit.
He was among the State’s guests during the Mashujaa Day celebrations held at Ithookwe stadium in Kitui County.
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