John Mahama backs Ethiopia’s bid to host 2028 AFCON

Ghana President John Dramani Mahama has backed Ethiopia’s bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the country as capable of staging a successful tournament.

Mahama made the remarks after inspecting the 52,000-capacity Bahir Dar Stadium, which has received certification from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The inspection was attended by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and other African leaders participating in the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa.

“This is a very impressive stadium, a 52,000-capacity stadium, and it’s already CAF-certified," Mahama said during the inspection.

"We know that Ethiopia is bidding to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations. Ethiopia hasn’t hosted it for a very long time, so I think it’s only fair that they should be given the opportunity to do so," he added.

Ethiopia last hosted the AFCON in 1976 and is seeking to bring the continent’s flagship football competition back to the country after more than five decades.

Earlier this month, CAF officials visited Ethiopia to inspect its facilities as part of the country’s preparations for a potential hosting bid.

While Bahir Dar Stadium’s CAF certification represents an important step, Ethiopia’s overall bid will be assessed against the governing body’s requirements for hosting the tournament.