Senegalese-American singer and social activist, Akon, is set to add star power to the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2023 as he hosts the final draw on Thursday, October 12, 2023.
The much-awaited event for football enthusiasts, will commence at 7 p.m. local time at the Parc Des Expositions venue in Abidjan.
Akon, known for his hit music and his ‘Akon Lighting Africa’ project, is a passionate football fan and an advocate for social change. His initiative aims to harness solar electricity to address Africa’s basic electricity needs, making him a fitting host for this prestigious event.
The AFCON promises to be a glamorous occasion, as the 24 qualified nations eagerly await the announcement of their group-stage opponents. The draw will be broadcast in over 50 countries, with millions of viewers expected to join the excitement via CAF’s official YouTube channel and its global TV partners.
The 34th edition of the competition is scheduled to take place in Cote d’Ivoire from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
The 24 teams are divided into various pots, ensuring an equitable and competitive tournament. The groups, named A to F, will each consist of four countries, with one team selected from each pot.
Pot 1 has host nation Ivory Coast, defending champions Senegal, and football powerhouses Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco. Pot 2 features Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali, and Burkina Faso. Pot 3 includes South Africa, Cape Verde, Mauritania, Zambia, Equatorial Guinea, and Mauritania, while Pot 4 comprises Guinea Bissau, Angola, Gambia, Namibia, Mozambique, and Tanzania.
The tournament’s return to Ivorian soil after nearly four decades promises exceptional football moments, and the final draw is the first step towards that thrilling journey.