DAR ES SALAAM: AS Tanzania, alongside Kenya and Uganda, prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the nation finds itself at a defining moment for sport, infrastructure and national identity.
What began as a proud bid has evolved into a strategic endeavour that transcends football, touching economic development, public confidence and international prestige.
At the core of this preparation is the build-out of world-class infrastructure. Key projects like the new Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium in Arusha have advanced rapidly, with construction surpassing 70per cent completion and targeted commissioning well before the tournament.
Alongside this, established venues such as the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam and other facilities in Zanzibar are being refurbished or integrated into broader match and training plans.
This dual focus on new and upgraded facilities shows a clear understanding that AFCON 2027 must meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards while leaving lasting assets for domestic sport.
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Government leadership has been vocal and active. Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba recently commended the pace and direction of preparations, stressing the need for cross-sectoral involvement to ensure deadlines are met and operational standards upheld.
This inclusive approach, urging ministries and agencies to contribute, reflects recognition that hosting a major continental tournament is a national undertaking, not just a sports ministry responsibility. In addition to physical readiness, Tanzania has pursued strategic partnerships to bolster capacity.
Signing 22 cooperation agreements with foreign partners underlines a commitment to enhancing talent development, coaching, administration and sport science, an investment that benefits the national team and grassroots football beyond the tournament itself.
Tanzania’s recent experience hosting continental competitions, including CHAN 2024, has provided valuable lessons in event logistics, security and hospitality, all crucial elements for AFCON success. Officials have studied tournaments such as the AFCON hosted in Morocco to absorb organisational insights that will inform local execution.
However, challenges remain. CAF technical inspections are underway across host cities, assessing readiness and alignment with international standards. These evaluations are pivotal; they will guide final preparations and identify areas needing acceleration or refinement. Ultimately, Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 preparations reflect a broader ambition.. to use football as a catalyst for development, national unity and continental recognition. If execution matches intent, the tournament will not only showcase East African hospitality but also leave a legacy of improved infrastructure, sporting excellence and collective pride.