CAF President Patrice Motsepe has expressed confidence that Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations as planned, despite ongoing challenges in preparations.

Speaking at a press conference on September 17, Motsepe said the Confederation of African Football would continue working with the three countries to ensure key deadlines are met.

“There will always be challenges and areas that require improvement, but we have to believe in ourselves as East Africans and Africans, and work together to meet those deadlines,” he said.

Motsepe acknowledged that significant work remains to be completed, including facilities and other infrastructure needed for the tournament.

He praised the progress made in Tanzania and called for preparations to be accelerated ahead of the competition.

“I’m very proud of the good work that’s taking place in Tanzania. We have nine months, and part of my emphasis is that we have to speed up. We are here to work together, to help and assist. This is our AFCON,” he said.

The 2027 tournament will be the first edition jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

It is provisionally scheduled to run from June 19 to July 17.