- "I thank the organizers for putting up a good case for East Africa."
- The announcement was made during a CAF executive meeting at the headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, chaired by President Patrice Motsepe.
Image: STATEHOUSE UGANDA
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has expressed his gratitude to neighbors Kenya and Tanzania following Wednesday's announcement to jointly host the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in 2027.
Through a statement, Museveni said the opportunity to host the 2027 Afcon will promote the three countries and positively impact economies, especially the tourism sector.
“In particular, I congratulate and thank their Excellencies Samia Hassan Suluhu and William Ruto for promptly agreeing to bid for the hosting with us,” he said.
"I received good news that our joint bid with Kenya and Tanzania to host the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in 2027 was successful. I thank the organizers for putting up a good case for East Africa."
Museveni termed the opportunity to host the games as logically, 'the most attractive.'
On her part, Tanzanian President Suluhu expressed her excitement, thanking God for the win.
She urged the Sports ministry to start early preparations ahead of the event.
She said the modern stadia in Arusha and Dodoma will be renovated to perfection, and assured that other preparations are at bay.
"Nawaagiza Wizara ya Utamaduni, Sanaa na Michezo kuhakikisha tunafanya maandalizi mazuri, ikiwemo kukamilika kwa wakati na kwa ubora wa hali ya juu, viwanja viwili vipya vya kisasa vya michezo Arusha na Dodoma," she said.
"Tunamshukuru Mwenyezi Mungu tumefanikiwa kuwa wenyeji wa michuano mikubwa ya soka Afrika (AFCON2027), tukishirikiana na Kenya na Uganda."
President Ruto additionally shared his joy saying he was elated about the opportunity as the reforms under the Ministry of Sports are finally bearing fruits.
"We are very proud of this achievement. We will mobilise every resource and person and every sector to ensure we deliver a world-class football event in 2027. All infrasture needed will be made available."
The announcement was made during a CAF executive meeting at the headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, chaired by President Patrice Motsepe.
The East African nations beat Egypt, Senegal, and Botswana.
In the bid, Kenya fronted Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium as their main venues while Tanzania picked Benjamin Mkapa and Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.
Uganda picked Nelson Mandela and Nakivubo Stadium.
Algeria were also in the running until the eve of the announcement when they withdrew their candidature.
The CAF meeting also gave Morocco the right to stage the 2025 finals.