Uganda’s preparations to co-host the Africa cup of nations have today taken another significant step after the Local Organizing Committee addressed the media on opportunities available for potential service providers ahead of the continental tournament.

Led by Dr Dennis Mugimba, the committee called upon companies and individuals to register early and position themselves to benefit from the economic and business opportunities expected during Africa’s biggest football event.

The hosting of the Africa cup of nations marks a historic milestone for East Africa, as Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania prepare to jointly host the prestigious continental football tournament for the very first time in history.

For decades, the Africa Cup of Nations has not only been a sporting competition but also an economic driver that has transformed sectors such as tourism, transport, hospitality, infrastructure, and trade in host nations. Countries like Egypt, South Africa, and Cameroon witnessed increased business activity and international visibility during previous AFCON tournaments.

With millions of fans expected across the region in 2027, Uganda is now positioning local companies and service providers to tap into the opportunities that come with hosting one of Africa’s biggest sporting events.

Dr. Dennis K. Mugimba, the Chairperson of the Communications and Signage Sub-Committee under the Local Organising Committee (LOC), has urged Ugandan businesses to take advantage of the opportunities that will come with the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON PAMOJA 2027 tournament, which Uganda will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania.

He said CAF will soon issue tenders for different jobs, services, and supplies needed during the preparations and hosting of AFCON 2027. According to Dr. Mugimba, all interested businesses and potential suppliers are required to register directly with CAF through the official CAF website, where they will later receive notifications and communication through email.

Dr. Mugimba emphasized that businesses willing to supply goods and services for AFCON 2027 should have active websites and clear business information online because CAF will mainly use those platforms to identify and contact service providers.

He explained that the registration process is completely free of charge and warned the public against fraudsters claiming they can connect people to CAF opportunities. He stressed that no middlemen or agents are required since CAF will directly contact successful applicants through their registered websites and emails.

Among the potential services expected to be needed during AFCON 2027 preparations are translation services, catering services, hotels and accommodation, IT and technology services, branding and printing, broadcasting services, ticketing solutions, transport, tourism, cleaning services, and other hospitality-related businesses.

Dr. Mugimba also encouraged business owners to seek more guidance and information through the Uganda Tourism Board and tourism industry stakeholders as the country prepares to host thousands of visitors during the tournament.

He revealed that over 5,000 guests are expected to start arriving in Uganda by late August, urging businesses to begin preparations and registration immediately in order to benefit from the opportunities that will come with the continental tournament.

On infrastructure development, Dr. Mugimba gave an update on the ongoing construction and renovation works at several sports facilities across the country, including Hoima City Stadium, Mandela National Stadium Namboole, and facilities in Masindi, all aimed at meeting CAF standards ahead of AFCON 2027.

Dr. Mugimba further reassured Ugandans that the country is financially prepared to successfully host the tournament.