Young Africans (Yanga), the Mainland Tanzania champions, have confirmed their intention to use the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar for their CAF Champions League group-stage home matches. This decision has been welcomed by the Zanzibar Football Federation (ZFF), which had initially received a formal request from the club seeking permission to use the facility. According to ZFF secretary general Hussein Ahmada Vuai, Yanga's decision is an important gesture towards Zanzibar football.
The ZFF has expressed its delight with Yanga's decision, with Vuai stating that supporters across the islands are ready to give the team a warm welcome and full backing during their continental assignments. Vuai also acknowledged the existing football connection between Yanga and Zanzibar, saying that the club's leadership deserves appreciation for choosing the island as their home venue. This move is expected to strengthen cooperation between football stakeholders in Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
The New Amaan Complex, which underwent major renovation under the administration of Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, was officially inaugurated in December 2023. The facility has since hosted several high-profile matches, including the 2025 CAF Confederation Cup final and matches during the African Nations Championship (CHAN). The investment in sports infrastructure has expanded opportunities for national team football and improved the island's capacity to attract international sporting events.
President Mwinyi's administration has prioritized the development of modern sporting facilities, with the aim of identifying and nurturing talent, encouraging wider participation, and creating opportunities for young people, women, and people with disabilities. The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar has undertaken improvements to several facilities, including Mao Tse Tung and Gombani Stadium in Pemba, as part of preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Yanga's decision to use the New Amaan Complex is seen as a boost to Zanzibar's growing reputation as a destination for major football competitions. The move is also expected to provide local supporters with access to high-level continental competition and give the island's football fans an opportunity to watch top-level football. Vuai has thanked Yanga's leadership for choosing Zanzibar and expressed his confidence that the team will receive a warm welcome and full support during their matches.
The ZFF has also revealed that Simba, another Tanzanian club, has written to the federation requesting permission to use the New Amaan Complex for their continental assignments. While the federation has informed Simba that the facility will be available, the club had yet to confirm its decision at the time of Vuai's interview. This development suggests that Zanzibar's New Amaan Complex is becoming a preferred destination for Tanzanian clubs competing in continental competitions.
The growing investment in sports infrastructure in Zanzibar represents more than stadium development, providing a foundation for sports tourism, employment opportunities, and greater exposure for local football. With its modern facilities and strategic location, Zanzibar is well-positioned to host major international sporting events and provide a platform for local footballers to showcase their talents.
Key points
- Yanga to use New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar for CAF Champions League home matches
- Zanzibar's New Amaan Complex has hosted several high-profile matches since its renovation
- Investment in sports infrastructure in Zanzibar aims to promote sports tourism and create opportunities for local footballers
