Uganda seeks $2 billion tourism boost by co‑hosting AFCON 2027

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be the first edition co‑hosted by three East African nations – Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. CAF commercial director Hassan El Kamah told delegates at the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo that the tournament could generate more than US $2 billion in combined economic impact for the hosts, with an estimated three billion television viewers worldwide.

Uganda’s tourism authorities are mobilising the event as a “once‑in‑a‑generation” marketing platform. FUFA vice‑president Dr Taibu Azar and Uganda Tourism Board CEO Juliana Kagwa said preparations are under way to link football fans with the country’s wildlife, cultural and adventure attractions, aiming to turn match‑day visitors into longer‑stay tourists. The board is also pursuing destination‑partner marketing rights to raise Uganda’s profile globally.

Stakeholders in hospitality, airlines, hotels and tour operators have been urged to ready competitive products before qualification round‑ups are announced in September 2026.