The Kenya State Department for Sports is seeking parliamentary approval for a Sh32.24 billion budget to fund preparations for AFCON 2027 [1].
This funding request is critical as Kenya prepares to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania. The scale of the investment reflects the urgency of developing major sports infrastructure and security frameworks required to meet continental standards before the tournament begins.
The budget request for the 2026/27 fiscal year totals Sh32.24 billion [1]. This figure represents a significant increase over the previous budget ceiling of Sh25.49 billion established in the 2026 Budget Policy Statement [1].
To meet these goals, the department is seeking an additional Sh6.75 billion over that previous ceiling [2]. The funds are earmarked for the development of sports infrastructure, and general preparedness for the event in Nairobi and other regions.
Kenya is working in coordination with its regional partners to ensure the tournament's success. The requested funds will support the physical requirements of the competition, including stadium upgrades and facility management, and the broader logistical needs of hosting a major international sporting event [1], [2].
Parliamentary approval is now the primary hurdle for the department to secure the necessary capital for these projects. The request comes as the 2027 deadline approaches, leaving a narrow window for the completion of large-scale construction and infrastructure projects [3].
“Kenya is seeking parliamentary approval for a Sh32.24 billion budget to fund preparations for AFCON 2027.”
The request for additional funding underscores the financial pressure on Kenya to meet the strict infrastructure requirements set by CAF for hosting the Africa Cup of Nations. By seeking a budget increase of Sh6.75 billion, the government is signaling that previous estimates were insufficient to cover the scope of the necessary upgrades. The outcome of this parliamentary request will determine whether Kenya can deliver world-class facilities in time for the 2027 kickoff.
