Failure by Kenya to pay the hosting fee amount required Ksh3.9 billion by March 30, 2026, means it risks losing its opportunity to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) next year.
Sports Principal Secretary, Elijah Mwangi, when appearing before the Sports and Culture Committee of the National Assembly encouraged the legislators to act so that the money can be paid in time.
Kenya is sectioned as a joint host with Tanzania and Uganda. But the two nations have already paid their fees and Kenya will be left behind in case it procrastinates.
Another concern is whether stadiums and other facilities will be completed in time as some of the projects related to the tournament are yet to be completed owing to default of contractors who have not been paid.
Mwangi said that the communication received by CAF provided the timelines of the activities that should be performed to prepare to host Africa Cup of Nations.
With this, we have until March 20, 2026, to settle the amount due from hosting fee in the light of the recent communication of CAF, the PS added.
Mwangi also explains that the Confederation of African football (CAF) had already indicated that payment in time is one of the most important markers of the commitment of Kenya to host the continental sports tournament.
CAF are very strict that we should demonstrate dedication by giving. Mwangi then repeated himself, asking this Committee to please take this Supplementary to have the 2026/2027 budget introduced.
The committee assured the PS that they would put pressure on the National Assembly to disburse the hosting funds.
The MP said that the loss of the hosting rights would not merely be a financial and logistical blow, but also hurt the national pride and regional positioning.
We have listened to you and we will press on the Treasury to issue the hosting rights money to ensure that we do not find ourselves into the rut of not being awarded the right to host AFCON. The Chairperson said it will be a big shame to Kenya which has always been a big brother in the region.
The most recent development is just barely 15 months before the competition is to begin and this is expected to be held in July next year and is the joint venture of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
