Uganda Is Co-Hosting AFCON 2027. Here’s How the Cranes Are Shaping Up

What the report says

Uganda is preparing to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Kenya and Tanzania, a tournament branded PAMOJA and scheduled for 19 June to 17 July 2027. As a host nation, Uganda’s place in the finals is already secure, but Watchdog Uganda said the team’s qualifying fixtures and upcoming friendlies still matter as a way to assess progress and build momentum.

In Group H, Uganda opened with a 1-1 draw away to Tunisia and followed it with a 1-0 home win over Libya in Hoima, leaving the Cranes top of the group after two matches. The report said those results showed signs of resilience, but also highlighted ongoing concerns about consistency and chance creation. Uganda then added two unbeaten October friendlies against DR Congo, winning one and drawing the other, which the outlet presented as further evidence of steady if uneven improvement.

Watchdog Uganda also pointed to lessons from Uganda’s early exit at the previous AFCON in 2025, when defensive lapses and limited attacking output undermined the campaign. Head coach Paul Put’s November squad selection for Botswana includes established names and younger players, while captain Khalid Aucho’s international retirement creates a leadership gap in midfield. The next checkpoints are two matches against Botswana, including a home fixture in Hoima on 14 November, which will help gauge readiness ahead of the home tournament.