PS Mwangi: Government confident of beating AFCON payment deadline despite delays

The government has expressed confidence in meeting key Confederation of African Football (CAF) deadlines ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi acknowledged that the country is yet to fulfil its first major obligation, the payment of the hosting fee. Kenya is required to raise 30 million US dollars (approximately KSh 3.9 billion) by March 30, 2026.

Mwangi explained that the delay is not due to a lack of funds, but rather budgetary procedures. He noted that the government operates within a structured financial system, and the required funds are not currently captured in the existing budget.

“To address this, the State Department for Sports has already engaged the National Treasury, with plans to include the amount in the supplementary budget. This process will ensure that the payment is made within the stipulated timeline.”

He explained further: “The decision followed consultations with the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture, chaired by Dan Wanyama. The discussions focused on whether the allocations in the 2025/26 financial year were sufficient to meet Kenya’s obligations, particularly for AFCON preparations.”

Mwangi expressed optimism that Parliament will approve the supplementary budget in time, allowing the government to release the funds before the deadline. He reassured Kenyans that there is no cause for alarm, emphasizing that the country remains firmly on track in its hosting commitments.

“We are on the right track and should not be worried about hosting AFCON. We have less than 10 days, and we are confident that the supplementary budget will be passed and the funds released,” he said.

The PS further noted that the sports department has been allocated over KSh 4.8 billion in the revised budget, which will support various mandates. However, he emphasized that meeting AFCON requirements remains an immediate priority as Kenya prepares to deliver a successful continental tournament.