AFCON 2027: Mamadou Gaye Says His Criticism Was Meant to Push East Africa
Ivorian journalist Mamadou Gaye has clarified his recent remarks on East Africa’s preparedness to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He said he intended to spark debate and improvement, not offend the host nations.
Gaye faced backlash after questioning whether Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania have the infrastructure needed to host the expanded tournament. Speaking at a press conference, he said his comments reflected concerns shared by many football stakeholders.
“AFCON is heading to three East African countries I have visited before. In some areas, roads remain poor. Some East African journalists told me it can take two days to travel between countries by road,” Gaye said.
He warned that Morocco had set high standards during its recent AFCON hosting. According to him, future hosts must match or exceed those benchmarks to protect the tournament’s image.
“My biggest concern is whether AFCON standards will drop. We must ask serious questions now. If countries fail to prepare, CAF can take the tournament away,” he said.
Morocco as a Benchmark
Gaye said Morocco’s success shows what long-term planning can achieve. He noted that Côte d’Ivoire once appeared more developed than Morocco, but sustained investment changed that reality.
Morocco now boasts modern stadiums, reliable transport systems and efficient mobility across host cities. Gaye expressed hope that countries south of the Sahara could achieve similar progress.
He also reflected on Ivory Coast’s past hosting experience. He said infrastructure outside the capital remained a major challenge at the time.
“When you leave the capital, things change. Accommodation becomes limited. Transport slows down. You also lack top-class stadiums,” he said.
Warning Ahead of AFCON 2027
Gaye pointed to repeated postponements of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) as evidence of infrastructure problems across the continent. He also recalled Kenya losing the 1996 AFCON hosting rights to South Africa due to unpreparedness.
“At the moment, the three East African countries are not fully ready,” he said.
Gaye warned that CAF will not hesitate to act if preparations stall. He cited an incident in Côte d’Ivoire where authorities dismissed both the Sports Minister and the Prime Minister months before a tournament over a poor playing surface.
In contrast, he praised Morocco’s attention to detail. He said heavy rain did not disrupt the opening ceremony because officials had prepared the pitches properly.
“Every host city must offer affordable accommodation. Transport must work smoothly. Morocco’s train system made movement easy,” he said.
Gaye concluded with a firm warning. He said criticism in 2027 will be harsher than current discussions if host nations fail to deliver.
“If you do less than Morocco, people will criticise you more. CAF has no sentiment. If you are not ready, they will take it away. They have done it before,” he said.
