Arap Uria: Kenyan Entertainer Reflects on AFCON 2023 Adventure and Vibrant Ivory Coast Atmosphere

• Kenyan entertainer Meshack Kiprop has spoken of his experience during the AFCON 2023
• 'Arap Uria' was present at the final in the Alassane Ouattara Stadium when Ivory Coast won
• The content creator even hit Cristiano Ronaldo's trademark 'Siuu' celebration with the fans

Kenyan content creator, Meshack Kiprop, famously known as 'Arap Uria,' recently shared his captivating journey during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 tournament held in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, where the hosts, Cote d’Ivoire, clinched a historic victory against Nigeria in the final on February 11, Arap Uria immersed himself in the vibrant football culture of the tournament.

Documenting his escapades on social media, the content creator engaged with fans at the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpé, capturing the essence of the event before, during, and after the thrilling match.

Achraf Hakimi: Fans compare Morocco star's heartbreaking penalty miss to Asamoah Gyan's 2010 pain

Football

He even replicated Ronaldo's iconic 'Siuu' celebration, igniting cheers from the stands.

In an exclusive interview with Sports Brief, Arap Uria applauded the unwavering support of the Ivorian fans, stressing their pivotal role as the '12th man' in propelling the home team to victory.

“It was an awesome experience being the first time, I enjoyed being there. I experienced the African vibe in football,” said Arap Uria.

Expressing his support for Ivory Coast in the final, Arap Uria highlighted the overwhelming presence of the home crowd, contrasting the sparse representation of Nigerian supporters. He credited the infectious atmosphere created by the fans as a driving force behind the host nation's triumph.

“I think what motivated the Ivory Coast was the atmosphere created by the fans. Nigeria had a few fans out of the stadium capacity of 60,000. It would have been bad if the hosts lost, they deserved the win,” he remarked.

AFCON: Vinicius causes stir online with 'We all love CR7' quote after Bafana players copy Ronaldo

Football

Arap Uria on Bafana's AFCON 2023 performance

Reflecting on the tournament, Arap Uria commended South Africa's commendable third-place finish and acknowledged the prowess of the Democratic Republic of Congo's team. He particularly lauded Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams' exceptional performance as instrumental to South Africa's success.

“Bafana have been outstanding, but during their third-place match, DR Congo outplayed them, considering the statistics. DRC also had fans from the host nation supporting them. South Africa had the best goalkeeper of the tournament, so that also helped them,” he explained.

Looking ahead to Kenya's co-hosting of the 2027 AFCON edition, as reported by Africa News, Arap Uria expressed confidence in the country's ability to meet the necessary standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). While acknowledging Ivory Coast's football infrastructure superiority, he affirmed Kenya's potential to prepare adequately for the event.

“We can host the tournament, but we have to meet CAF requirements There are stadium and training field standards that they require. If you compare the economies, Kenya is ahead, but in terms of football, Cote d’Ivoire are much ahead. They have invested in football and have one of the best stadiums in Africa. Kenya still has time,” he shared.

Man United legend slams Arsenal for over-celebrating win over Liverpool

Football

He also talked of the significance of CAF inspections in ensuring the tournament's successful organization, noting the involvement of critical officials like Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba in overseeing the preparations.

Beyond his exploits in the entertainment industry, Arap Uria is a 28-year-old teacher with a passion for comedy, as reported by Sowetan Live. His journey to stardom, marked by his portrayal of renowned football commentators like Peter Drury and his collaboration with brands, reflects his creativity.

From humble beginnings in a village in Moiben constituency, Uasin Gishu County, and with a growing fan base of over 214,000 followers on Instagram and over 410,000 subscribers on YouTube, his influence continues to resonate within Kenya's entertainment landscape.

Sports CS Namwamba engages CAF President Patrice Motsepe

Sports Brief reported that Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports CS Namwamba met CAF President Patrice Motsepe to update him on Kenya's preparations for the 2027 AFCON.

AFCON 2023: Cameroon Legend Jokes You Need “Juju” to Save 4 Penalties Like Ronwen Williams, Video

Football

Namwamba was present at the Olympic Stadium in Abidjan to witness AFCON 2023 hosts Ivory Coast eliminate DR Congo 1-0 on February 7.

The Sports CS took the opportunity to commend Motsepe and his team for their significant contributions to the growth of African football.