Presidential aspirant and Gor Mahia FC Patron Eliud Owalo has expressed confidence in Kenya’s ability to successfully co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, provided funds meant for stadium construction and related infrastructure are properly managed.
Speaking on Royal Media Services’ Mulembe FM on Thursday, Owalo said the country has the technical capacity and resources required to stage the continental tournament but warned that mismanagement of public funds could jeopardize preparations.
“We are capable of co-hosting a successful AFCON 2027, provided those managing infrastructural development ahead of the tournament do not misappropriate funds set aside for the works,” Owalo said during the interview.
Kenya is set to co-host the 2027 tournament alongside neighbors Uganda and Tanzania under the East African Pamoja bid, marking a historic moment for the region.
Owalo also used the platform to highlight the need for stronger collaboration between Kenya’s biggest football clubs, Gor Mahia FC and AFC Leopards — to help restore the country’s competitiveness in continental football.
“I want to team up with officials from Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards to help these two teams compete strongly on the continent,” he stated.
The two historic clubs remain among Kenya’s most successful and widely supported teams, but both have struggled in recent years to make a deep impact in African club competitions.
Owalo’s remarks come at a time when preparations for AFCON 2027 are under increasing scrutiny, with Kenyans keen to see improvements in sports infrastructure and better management of public resources ahead of the tournament.
