Kenya is setting its sights firmly on the future of African football after the successful hosting of the CHAN 2024 tournament, which it co-hosted with Uganda and Tanzania. President William Samoei Ruto has hailed the milestone as a stepping stone towards delivering an even bigger spectacle when the country co-hosts the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.

Speaking at State House, Nairobi, where he met FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe ahead of the CHAN 2024 finals between Morocco and Madagascar, President Ruto emphasized Kenya’s commitment to upgrading its sporting infrastructure. Among the flagship projects is the construction of the Talanta Stadium and several modern facilities across the country, alongside a Sh600 million National Technical Centre in Machakos—to be supported by FIFA and serve as the new headquarters of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

“These investments will strengthen grassroots sports, nurture talent, and firmly place our sports on the global stage,” the President noted.

While congratulating Morocco on their well-deserved victory in the CHAN 2024 final, President Ruto paid tribute to all teams, officials, and organizers for making the tournament a success. He stressed that the lessons learned from CHAN 2024 would be critical in sharpening Kenya’s preparation for AFCON 2027.

But beyond infrastructure and logistics, the President underscored the deeper significance of the competition.

“CHAN 2024 has affirmed the spirit of Pan-Africanism. It has showcased the unity, resilience, and immense talent of our continent. From North to South, East to West, Africa’s sons and daughters displayed not only footballing brilliance but also the bonds that tie us together as one people. This celebration of African excellence reminds us that our future is brightest when we stand together,” he said.

As fans at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani witnessed Morocco’s triumph over Madagascar, the atmosphere reflected more than a championship match—it marked a powerful moment of African solidarity and sporting excellence. For Kenya, the journey now turns towards AFCON 2027, where the nation is determined to deliver a tournament that matches Africa’s ambition and global sporting standards.