Fresh questions are being raised over East Africa’s readiness to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with infrastructure delays across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania putting the Pamoja project under renewed scrutiny.

The concerns follow a report by French publication Le Monde, which says CAF has explored possible contingency options amid the slow pace of preparations. Morocco, Algeria and South Africa are among the countries reportedly assessed as potential alternatives.

The reports come barely two weeks after CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe completed an inspection tour of the three host nations. After touring Nairobi’s newly constructed 60,000-capacity Talanta Stadium, Motsepe publicly insisted there was “neither a Plan B nor a Plan C” and ruled out moving the tournament away from East Africa.

However, he also acknowledged that there was a “situation of great urgency” with nine months remaining before the tournament. A further CAF inspection is scheduled for January 2027.

Kenya’s Talanta Stadium has made significant progress, but other elements of the country’s preparations remain under pressure. Kasarani Stadium, one of Kenya’s designated venues, is also undergoing refurbishment, while the wider transport infrastructure, including railway projects linked to improving movement around the tournament, remains an important part of the preparations.

Uganda presents a mixed picture. Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira is nearing completion, while Hoima City Stadium has made substantial progress and has been identified as one of the country’s key venues. Mandela National Stadium, however, remains closed for renovation. Uganda’s government says the three stadiums are targeted for completion by December.

In Tanzania, Benjamin Mkapa Stadium remains closed as renovation work continues while Samia Suluhu stadium is behind schedule adding another major venue to the list requiring close monitoring.

CAF’s requirements are demanding. Each host country is expected to provide at least two suitable stadiums, with the tournament requiring venues capable of meeting strict standards covering pitches, drainage, lighting, broadcast facilities, spectator areas and other infrastructure.

With CAF’s next major assessment due in January, the three hosts have only a few months to turn construction and renovation projects into fully operational tournament facilities.

For now, Motsepe’s public position remains firm: AFCON 2027 stays in East Africa. But the contrasting reports underline the pressure facing Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania as the countdown enters a decisive stage.