Kurt E. S. Okraku joins Patrice Motsepe for Tanzania inspection ahead of 2027 AFCON

Okraku, who serves as CAF’s second vice-president, will be part of a high-level delegation travelling to Tanzania to assess the country’s readiness for the continental showpiece.

The delegation is expected to inspect the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, one of the key facilities earmarked for the tournament, as well as other infrastructure connected to Tanzania’s preparations.

Motsepe will be received by Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President Wallace Karia before holding discussions with Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba on the country’s progress towards hosting the competition.

The visit is particularly significant as Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda prepare to stage the first jointly hosted Africa Cup of Nations involving three countries.

The tournament is scheduled for June 19 to July 17, 2027, with the host nations working with CAF to ensure stadiums, training facilities, accommodation, transportation, security and other infrastructure meet the required standards.

Okraku’s presence alongside Motsepe reflects his role within CAF’s leadership structure and his involvement in the organisation’s engagement with member associations across the continent.

The CAF delegation will also include fifth vice-president Feizal Sidat, CECAFA President Paulos Weldehaimanot and acting Secretary General Samson Adamu.

CAF inspectors have already conducted technical assessments in Tanzania, including inspections of the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, training venues, hotels and airport facilities.

The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium has been undergoing improvements to its playing surface, VIP and VVIP areas and media facilities as authorities work towards satisfying CAF’s requirements.

The visit by Motsepe and Okraku will therefore provide an opportunity for CAF leadership to assess the progress on the ground and identify areas requiring further attention.

Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda are also building on their experience of co-hosting the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with the lessons from that tournament expected to support preparations for the much larger AFCON competition.

As preparations move into a crucial phase, Okraku’s participation in the inspection places the Ghanaian football administrator at the heart of CAF’s engagement with the three East African host nations ahead of the 2027 tournament.

Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet