Botswana have officially entered the race to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, confirming their interest in submitting a joint bid alongside South Africa. The announcement places the southern African neighbours firmly among the early contenders for the continent’s flagship football tournament.

The confirmation comes as the CAF Executive Committee meeting gets underway in Rabat, Morocco, where senior African football officials are holding wide ranging discussions on the future of the game, including upcoming major tournaments and hosting rights.

Botswana’s move signals growing ambition within the country’s football administration, with officials viewing a co-hosted AFCON as an opportunity to accelerate infrastructure development, boost tourism, and deepen regional cooperation. Partnering South Africa, an experienced host with established stadiums and logistical capacity, is seen as a strategic way to strengthen the bid.

While the formal bidding process is still expected to unfold over the coming months, the timing of Botswana’s declaration, during an active CAF Executive Committee meeting, underlines the seriousness of their intent as African football’s decision makers shape the calendar for the years ahead.