Key Takeaways
- Moses Magogo says East Africa must use the 2027 AFCON to unite and grow.
- Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania will co-host the tournament for the first time in the region.
- Magogo admits inexperience but vows to learn from CAF and deliver the best finals ever.
FUFA President Moses Magogo has told East Africans to grab the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with both hands, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime chance to place the region on the football map.
Speaking at the PAMOJA workshop in Kampala, Magogo thanked the governments of Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania for backing the joint bid that won hosting rights last year. “We asked our leaders to trust us, and they did. CAF then gave us the prize,” he said.
Magogo noted that past AFCON finals have mostly taken place in north, west or southern Africa. “Now the spotlight turns to us. We must show we belong,” he added.
He admitted the three nations lack big-tournament practice, but insisted passion and hard work will close the gap. “We will sit, listen and learn from CAF experts. Our goal is simple: become the best host the continent has seen,” he declared.
The FUFA chief believes the 2027 finals will boost tourism, create jobs and improve roads, stadiums and hotels. “After this event, football in East Africa will never be the same,” he predicted, recalling how the 2021 CHAN changed local perceptions of what Uganda can achieve.
Magogo also framed the championship as a bridge for the East African Community. “Our shared love for the game can bring us even closer together,” he said.
He closed by thanking CAF President Patrice Motsepe for rotating the tournament among all regions. “This is our moment. Let’s own it,” Magogo urged.