The three West African nations currently under military rule – Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger – have made a bold move by submitting a joint bid to host the 2032 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). This unprecedented collaborative effort is not only a gesture of regional solidarity but also a testament to their shared vision for the sustainable growth of African football. By banding together, these nations are putting their differences aside and embracing a new era of cooperation – one that could have far-reaching implications for the region's economic development, trade, and security.
The bid to host Afcon 2032 is a key component of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a pact aimed at fostering enhanced cooperation across various sectors. The three countries officially departed the West African regional bloc ECOWAS last year and have since strengthened ties with Russia. However, their military governments continue to face significant security challenges from armed jihadist groups across the Sahel region.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe acknowledged these concerns when questioned by BBC Sport Africa, assuring that the three nations would not be prejudiced in the bidding process due to their military governance. However, he also stressed the importance of safety and security for fans and spectators, highlighting CAF's rigorous standards for hosting rights. These standards include assurances of protection from local authorities and robust infrastructure.
Motsepe's comments come as no surprise given the region's history with Afcon. Burkina Faso (1998) and Mali (2002) have previously hosted the tournament, but this would mark a new chapter in regional collaboration if awarded to the trio. The 2027 finals are set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda – a first for African football – and will likely pave the way for future joint bids.
The AES's emphasis on solidarity and regional integration extends beyond football. Recently, Burkina Faso's transitional parliament approved the creation of joint media outlets aimed at promoting the alliance's message and fostering regional communication. This bold move is a testament to their commitment to forging a new path forward – one that balances security concerns with a shared vision for growth and development.