The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has given the green light for Uhuru Stadium in Dar es Salaam to host group-stage matches for Tanzania's representatives in the 2026/2027 club competitions. This development is a significant boost to Tanzania's football scene, as it allows the country's top clubs to play their continental home matches at a familiar venue. The approval comes after CAF General Secretary Samson Adamu communicated the decision to the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF).
The approval is a major relief for Yanga and Simba, the two traditional rivals from Dar es Salaam, who can now look forward to playing their CAF Champions League home fixtures at home. They had initially been expected to relocate to Zanzibar due to concerns over Uhuru Stadium's compliance with CAF requirements. However, after undergoing improvements, the stadium has been deemed suitable to host continental matches. The decision also benefits Azam FC and Singida Black Stars, who will represent Tanzania in the CAF Confederation Cup.
The improvements made to Uhuru Stadium were inspected by CAF delegates, including Adamu, to assess whether the facility met the governing body's requirements. The visit was part of CAF's assessment process before granting the approval. TFF Media and Communications Director Clifford Ndimbo confirmed the development, stating that the federation would officially communicate the decision to all four clubs. This will enable them to adjust their preparations and logistical arrangements ahead of the group-stage campaign.
The approval represents a significant turnaround for TFF, which had initially considered New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar as an alternative venue. TFF president Wallace Karia had held discussions with representatives of the four clubs and stadium officials to identify the improvements needed to make Uhuru suitable for continental matches. The decision comes at an important moment for Yanga and Simba, who are preparing for demanding Champions League assignments against established African sides.
Yanga have been drawn in Group B alongside Egyptian giants Zamalek, Algeria's MC Alger, and Tunisia's Club Africain. Simba, on the other hand, face Morocco's RS Berkane, South Africa's Orlando Pirates, and Cameroon's Colombe Sportive in Group C. Playing at Uhuru could prove valuable for the two Dar es Salaam giants, whose large and passionate fan bases are expected to turn out in numbers. Home support could provide an important psychological advantage against opponents accustomed to competing in high-pressure continental environments.
Azam and Singida will also benefit from the arrangement as they pursue progress in the Confederation Cup. Azam are in Group B alongside Morocco's AS FAR, Libya's Al Ahly Tripoli, and South Africa's Durban City. Singida are in Group C with DR Congo's Maniema Union, Zambia's Red Arrows, and another opponent whose place is yet to be confirmed. CAF has scheduled the group-stage opening matches for November 27-29, with the competition running through January 2027.
The top two teams in each group will advance to the quarter-finals. With the Uhuru Stadium approval, Tanzania's four clubs can now focus on their continental campaigns with renewed hope and confidence. The development also gives their supporters renewed hope of witnessing another memorable continental campaign on home soil. New Amaan Complex will now be reserved for Taifa Stars' home assignments in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, including a match against Nigeria on November 17, 2026.
Key points
- CAF has approved Uhuru Stadium to host group-stage matches for Tanzania's football clubs in the 2026/2027 club competitions.
- The approval benefits Yanga, Simba, Azam, and Singida Black Stars, allowing them to play their continental home matches at a familiar venue.
- The decision provides relief for Tanzania's football scene and gives supporters renewed hope of witnessing another memorable continental campaign on home soil.
