The 2011 CECAFA Cup was an international football competition consisting of East and Central African national teams.

[4] However the Confederation of African Football (CAF) stated that Côte d'Ivoire and Zambia were not eligible to play in the competition as they had qualified for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

[6] However, it was then reported that they withdrew, citing financial constraints and lack of preparation time due to the late invitation.

[7] Zimbabwe had then been invited to replace them but the Malawian government told the Football Association of Malawi to reconsider their participation in the tournament as they along with CECAFA will shoulder their expenses.

It was suggested by some media outlets that Eritrean authorities were mindful of players attempting to seek political asylum whilst in Tanzania.