The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has begun inspecting Ethiopia’s bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, with a delegation arriving in Addis-Ababa to assess the country’s facilities, construction plans and ability to stage the 24-team tournament.

The CAF evaluation mission arrived on Thursday 15 October, following Ethiopia’s formal submission of its hosting proposal in August. Inspectors will examine the venues put forward, planned infrastructure projects and the country’s wider capacity to accommodate Africa’s biggest football competition.

The visit comes as Ethiopia seeks to revive its status as one of the continent’s historic football nations, despite significant shortcomings in its existing infrastructure.

When the bid was submitted, Ethiopia had only one stadium with CAF approval: Bahir Dar Stadium, in the city of the same name. Even that authorisation was provisional.

A central part of the country’s plans is the Adey Abeba International Stadium, which is expected to hold about 62,000 spectators. However, with less than two years before the tournament, Ethiopia’s challenge extends well beyond the construction or renovation of stadiums.

A 24-team Africa Cup of Nations requires multiple match venues, training grounds, hotels and transport and logistical networks capable of serving teams and thousands of visiting supporters.

Security concerns add to Ethiopia’s challenge

Ethiopia can point to a strong historical case for hosting the tournament. It was a founding member of CAF and took part in the first Africa Cup of Nations in 1957. The country has staged the competition three times, in 1962, 1968 and 1976, and won the title at home in 1962.

Security, however, could prove an even greater concern than the lack of infrastructure.

Tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea have escalated in recent days amid renewed fighting in the Tigray region. Addis-Ababa has accused Eritrea of carrying out military incursions into Ethiopian territory, allegations rejected by Asmara.

Military operations and drone strikes have been reported in northern Ethiopia, while Ethiopian forces have regained control of several areas close to the border. The developments have raised fears of a renewed open conflict between the two countries and prompted international calls for de-escalation.

CAF will have to assess whether the situation would allow the safe movement of national teams, officials and foreign supporters, as well as matches being played across several regions.

Ethiopia is also competing with a joint bid from South Africa and Zimbabwe. Their proposal remains in the race despite Botswana’s withdrawal at the end of September.

South Africa’s application benefits from the country’s experience of hosting the 2010 World Cup and its existing football infrastructure.

The CAF inspectors’ conclusions will now be closely watched. Ethiopia has historical credibility and clear political ambition, but must show that its plans can be delivered within a demanding timetable and under stable security conditions.