Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania visa plan for AFCON 2027
By Our reporter
Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania are working towards operationalising a joint visa framework to ease movement across their borders during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya issued the update after a meeting on Tuesday, August 25, which convened the PAMOJA Oversight Council, including Ugandan and Tanzanian officials and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), to review preparations for the competition.
“Among the key agenda items was the PAMOJA Visa Framework and cross-border mobility, where CS Mvurya joined his counterparts in assuring CAF of the three Governments’ commitment to advancing and operationalizing the proposed framework,” read a statement obtained by Kenyans.co.ke.
During the meeting, each country confirmed that it had reviewed the relevant requirements as preparations for the continental tournament continue, saying they would move ahead with the plan and work to put it in place.
“Each Host Nation has assessed the requirements within its jurisdiction and committed to undertaking the necessary measures towards its implementation,” the statement added.
The proposed arrangement is intended to simplify travel for fans, players, officials, accredited media, sponsors, suppliers and other people involved in the tournament.
It is part of broader efforts by the three host nations to coordinate the delivery of AFCON 2027 and provide easier movement across the region.
In addition, the framework would facilitate immigration and customs for tournament-related goods and equipment moving between the countries.
The plan builds on an earlier proposal considered by the three countries last year to introduce a special visa for players, officials and fans travelling during the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The meeting also covered infrastructure, with Mvurya reporting progress in the development and upgrading of stadiums, training grounds and other supporting facilities.
On August 19, he reported that Talanta Stadium was 94 per cent complete and could be ready to host matches in November or December.
CAF is now conducting inspections and assessments of the venues, with Mvurya saying Kenya would act on recommendations within the required timelines.
