The confirmation that Kenya will co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania represents far more than a sporting milestone. It presents an opportunity to accelerate urban development, modernise critical infrastructure and strengthen Kenya's position as a regional investment destination. Our view is that AFCON 2027 should be approached not merely as a football tournament, but as a national urban development programme capable of creating long-term value for Kenya's real estate sector. If planned strategically, the investments made today can continue delivering economic returns for decades after the tournament concludes.
Looking beyond stadium development
International sporting events often focus public attention on stadium construction. While modern sporting facilities are important, they represent only one component of a much broader urban ecosystem. Successful tournaments depend upon efficient transport systems, quality accommodation, reliable utilities, attractive public spaces and seamless digital connectivity. Collectively, these investments shape how visitors experience a country while simultaneously improving the quality of life for residents and enhancing the attractiveness of surrounding property markets. The true legacy of AFCON should therefore extend well beyond sport.
Expanding hospitality infrastructure
Hosting thousands of athletes, officials, sponsors, broadcasters and supporters will place additional demand on Kenya's hospitality sector. This presents opportunities to expand:
- Hotels;
- Serviced apartments;
- Extended-stay accommodation;
- Conference facilities; and
- Tourism-oriented mixed-use developments.
Importantly, these investments should be planned around long-term tourism growth rather than temporary tournament demand. Assets that continue generating economic activity beyond AFCON will deliver the strongest returns.
Transport infrastructure as a property catalyst
Transport remains one of the most powerful drivers of real estate value. Road improvements, airport expansion, enhanced public transport systems and pedestrian infrastructure improve accessibility while increasing the attractiveness of surrounding developments. AFCON provides an opportunity to accelerate infrastructure projects that may otherwise take significantly longer to implement. Well-planned transport investments create lasting economic benefits by supporting residential, commercial and industrial development long after the tournament has ended.
Rethinking stadium precincts
Globally, successful sporting venues increasingly function as mixed-use urban districts rather than standalone facilities. Kenya should pursue a similar approach. Areas surrounding stadiums should integrate:
- Retail developments;
- Hotels;
- Office space;
- Entertainment facilities;
- Restaurants;
- Residential developments; and
- Public open spaces.
Such integration transforms stadiums into year-round economic centres capable of supporting employment, investment and community activity.
Investing in better public spaces
International visitors often judge cities by the quality of their public environments. Landscaped parks, improved street lighting, clean public spaces, pedestrian walkways and enhanced security contribute to stronger visitor experiences while increasing surrounding property values. Urban liveability has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and investors. AFCON preparation presents an opportunity to improve these aspects permanently.
Strengthening digital infrastructure
Modern sporting events rely heavily on technology. Reliable broadband connectivity, smart mobility systems, digital payment infrastructure and integrated security technologies are now essential urban infrastructure. These investments improve operational efficiency during the tournament while strengthening Kenya's broader digital economy.
Planning for legacy rather than the tournament
Perhaps the most important consideration is ensuring that every major investment continues generating value after AFCON concludes. Athlete accommodation can transition into residential housing. Media facilities can be repurposed as commercial office space. Hospitality investments can continue supporting Kenya's tourism industry. Transport improvements will serve residents and businesses for decades. The objective should not be temporary infrastructure, but permanent economic assets.
Our View
At Stable Merchants, we believe AFCON 2027 represents one of Kenya's most significant urban development opportunities in recent years. Its success should not be measured solely by the quality of football played during the tournament. Rather, it should be evaluated by the quality of infrastructure created, the competitiveness of Kenya's cities and the long-term investment opportunities unlocked for the real estate sector. When viewed through this broader lens, AFCON becomes far more than a sporting event. It becomes a catalyst for urban transformation.
Next week, in Part II of this series, we examine how these investments could reshape Kenya's real estate market and where investors stand to benefit most.
Stable Merchants Limited
Defined by Value
