By KPC Reporter
Kenya is intensifying security preparations ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with the government affirming that safety remains a central pillar in delivering a successful continental tournament.
Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi said the government is fully committed to ensuring Kenya hosts a secure and CAF-compliant competition as preparations for PAMOJA AFCON 2027 gather momentum.
Speaking on Wednesday during the opening of a two-day CAF and Local Organising Committee (LOC) Security Workshop at Kasarani Stadium, the PS expressed confidence that Kenya was on course to meet all Confederation of African Football requirements ahead of the tournament, which is now just 13 months away.
“This workshop is very important in delivering a CAF-compliant football event. For an event of PAMOJA AFCON 2027 magnitude, security is a central pillar towards successful delivery of this great event,” said Mwangi.
The workshop brought together top security leaders, officials from Football Kenya Federation, representatives from the Ministry of Sports and key international stakeholders involved in tournament planning.
The event has been organised by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism in Sports at a time when Kenya is accelerating preparations for the biennial continental football showpiece.
Confederation of African Football was represented by Head of Safety and Security Christian Emeruwa.
Mwangi said the workshop discussions would focus on procedures and protocols required to guarantee a safe and secure tournament environment.
Key areas under review include lessons learned from CHAN 2025, challenges identified during the tournament and venue mapping strategies.
Other major topics being discussed at the Kasarani workshop include crowd management, traffic marshalling, cross-border movement coordination, airport and port security, match and training venue protection as well as security arrangements for VIP guests.
Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed called for intensified training and preparedness to ensure the country fully complies with CAF’s strict security standards.
“We must address all gaps to ensure we stage a unique tournament that provides a unique fan experience for Kenya’s fans,” said Hussein.
Security agencies attending the workshop include the Kenya Police Service, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Kenya Defence Forces, the National Counter Terrorism Centre and the National Disaster Operations Centre.
The Sports PS also noted that infrastructure development for the tournament was progressing steadily, with accelerated construction works ongoing at match and training venues earmarked for the championship.
Mwangi was flanked during the event by State Department for Sports Secretary Administration Evans Achoki, FKF President Hussein Mohammed and Kenya LOC chairperson Nicholas Musonye.