President John Mahama has called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to give Ethiopia the right to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Ghanaian president made the appeal after visiting Bahir Dar Stadium with other African leaders. He inspected the venue and said it had the potential to stage major international football competitions.
Mahama described the stadium as impressive and said Ethiopia should be considered for the continental tournament because of the long period since it last hosted the AFCON.
“This is a very impressive stadium. Ethiopia haven’t hosted the AFCON in a very long time. It is only fair for them to be given the opportunity,” Mahama said.
His comments come as discussions continue over which country will host the 2028 edition of Africa’s leading international football competition. CAF is expected to make the final decision on the host nation.
Mahama’s support reflects the wider importance of allowing countries across the continent to stage major football events. Hosting the AFCON can provide an opportunity for nations to demonstrate their sporting facilities, organisational ability and enthusiasm for the game.
For Ethiopia, being selected would mean welcoming the continent’s leading national teams and their supporters. It would also place the country at the centre of African football and give it the chance to showcase its infrastructure on a major international stage.
Bahir Dar Stadium was central to Mahama’s assessment during his visit, with the Ghanaian president expressing confidence in its capacity to host high-profile matches. His remarks add political backing to Ethiopia’s bid as CAF considers the competing claims for the 2028 tournament.
