Southern Africa has taken a significant step towards hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2028 after South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe submitted a joint bid to organize the tournament.

The collaboration, spearheaded by Cosafa president Tariq Babitseng, aims to showcase the region's capacity to host a major continental event following previous editions in Morocco and Ivory Coast.

The bid combines South Africa's established football infrastructure, including World Cup stadiums, with Botswana's and Zimbabwe's developing facilities.Zimbabwe is refurbishing stadiums for readiness by 2027, while Botswana has venues in Gaborone and Francistown.South Africa's experience hosting the 2010 World Cup and its world-class stadiums strengthen the proposal.The three nations will assess logistical requirements and align their proposal before final submission.This bid represents a milestone for Southern African football, offering growth opportunities in a region often overshadowed by other African areas.The collaboration highlights shared ambitions to host Africa's premier football event, leveraging regional strengths to secure AFCON 2028.