Tanzania's AFCON 2027 Preparations on Track, Says Minister

Tanzania is preparing to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Kenya and Uganda. Minister for Information, Culture, Arts, Sports, Paul Makonda, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the nation's preparations. He stated that work on the country's stadiums, training grounds, and supporting infrastructure is progressing well. The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam is now over 90% complete and is approaching 95% completion.

The redevelopment of the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium has moved into a major second phase, involving extensive changes to the pitch and hospitality areas. The existing VVIP section is being transformed into a presidential lounge, while about 10 new skyboxes are planned to bring the stadium up to international standards. Makonda said consultations between CAF, the ministry, and Tanzania's technical team are nearing completion. This will pave the way for the contractor to accelerate the remaining works.

In Zanzibar, the Fumba Stadium is about 85% complete, with all the required equipment already on site. Makonda said there is no need to wait for shipments or deal with port-related delays. The major task now is working day and night to complete the stadium. The preparations extend beyond the main stadiums, with road projects being advanced and additional training grounds being developed in the host areas.

Makonda sought to put to rest concerns over financing, saying that money is not holding back the projects. He attributed the continued flow of funds to President Samia Suluhu Hassan's direction to ensure that financing for the AFCON infrastructure is released on time. This assurance comes after CAF inspectors visited Tanzania earlier this month to assess the country's readiness.

The inspectors evaluated stadiums, training grounds, roads, hotels, hospitals, and airport facilities. The significance of the preparations stretches beyond football, with Tanzania having an opportunity to use AFCON 2027 to generate business and employment across various sectors. Makonda said the country should use the tournament to attract investment and create opportunities for young people.

The tournament could open opportunities in hospitality, transport, media, security, logistics, entertainment, and other services. Continental governing body CAF has laid down uncompromising infrastructure benchmarks for stadium venues. The conditions include reliable internet, sufficient water, and reliable electricity at the football stadiums.

A massive logistical overhaul is underway to handle the influx of thousands of travelling football fans. There is a major push for the state carrier, Air Tanzania, to be the official airline. Makonda noted that this will ensure that the country is well-prepared to host the tournament. The country aims to use the tournament to generate value beyond the final whistle.

Key points

• Tanzania's preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations are progressing well, with key infrastructure projects nearing completion.
• The country aims to use the tournament to attract investment and create opportunities for young people.
• CAF has laid down strict infrastructure benchmarks for stadium venues, including reliable internet, sufficient water, and reliable electricity.