Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has expressed confidence that Kenya will successfully host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), pointing to the country’s co-hosting of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as proof of its readiness.

In a statement posted on his X account on Saturday, August 30, 2025, Omollo emphasised the significance of the high-profile attendance at the CHAN final, noting that Kenya’s successful hosting reflects its growing international football stature.

“Kenya takes great pride in having successfully co-hosted #CHAN2024, a milestone that showcased our growing stature in international football,” Omollo declared.

The PS detailed the distinguished gathering that witnessed the tournament’s climax at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, which included top football leaders alongside Kenya’s political elite.

“Alongside H.E. President @WilliamsRuto and Rt. Hon. @RailaOdinga, we joined FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF President Patrice Motsepe and thousands of passionate fans at Kasarani Stadium, Nairobi, for the thrilling CHAN 2024 finals between Morocco and Madagascar,” Omollo stated.

AFCON preparations underway

Building on the CHAN success, Omollo announced that Kenya has already begun intensive preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations, expressing confidence in the country’s ability to deliver another successful continental tournament.

“With this success, preparations are already in top gear for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where Kenya is committed to delivering yet another world-class tournament,” he pledged.

Morocco claims championship

The CHAN final played on Saturday itself provided drama befitting the tournament’s stature, with Morocco emerging as champions after a closely contested match against Madagascar.

Madagascar, competing in their first-ever CHAN final, stunned fans when Félicité Mantasoa scored early in the game, giving The Barea a surprising lead.

Morocco quickly regained momentum with Youssef Mehri equalising in the 27th minute, and just before half-time, Oussama Lamlaoui scored to put the Atlas Lions ahead 2-1, much to the crowd’s delight.

Madagascar refused to give up. In the 68th minute, Toky Rakotondraibe restored parity, making it 2-2 and keeping alive hopes for an unforgettable upset.

The decisive moment came late in the second half when Morocco’s Oussama Lamlilioui scored again, sealing a 3-2 victory.

“The electrifying clash ended 3–2 in favour of Morocco, crowning them champions of the tournament,” Omollo wrote.