The East Africa region is stepping up efforts to ensure robust security for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.

Representatives from Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, the co-hosts of the tournament, recently convened workshop in Nairobi, bringing together counter-terrorism experts, security agencies and stakeholders from the sports sector.

 The workshop, organised by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), focused on securing major sporting events in the region.

 “Major sporting events play a significant role in empowering communities, including engaging underprivileged individuals. East Africa is rich in sports heritage, and this workshop is vital for uniting stakeholders to share knowledge and insights,” said Alex Tumushabe, Director of Planning and Policy at Uganda’s National Counter-Terrorism Centre.

Tumushabe who spoke during the workshop, stressed the need for a united front to address the growing threat of terrorism while fostering social cohesion through sports.

Participants explored insights, challenges and actionable recommendations to ensure a safe AFCON 2027.

 Stakeholders highlighted unique vulnerability of large gatherings, such as sports events, to violent extremism.

Richard Apau, a systems analyst at the African Union Counter-Terrorism Centre, revealed alarming statistics, noting that in 2023, 68 per cent of terrorist attacks resulted in over 15,000 fatalities.

By November 30, nearly 4,000 terrorist incidents had been recorded globally.

The figures, he said, underscored the critical need for enhanced security measures at major events.

Discussions also centered on the power of sports as a tool for promoting inclusivity and positive values, which can counter radicalisation, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Stakeholders acknowledged that while sporting events unite people across cultural, political and religious divides, they also remain attractive targets for extremist groups seeking to disrupt social harmony.

Kibiego Kigen, the Director NCTC, stressed the need for multisectoral collaboration in bolstering security for AFCON 2027.

He noted the initiative lays a foundation for capacity building and awareness on preventing and countering violent extremism while creating peaceful environments during major sporting events.