ARUSHA: ROAD infrastructure projects linked to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Arusha region are progressing on schedule, with contractors working day and night to ensure they are completed on time, Regional Commissioner (RC) Amos Makalla has said.
The RC confirmed the road details during the Annual General Meeting of the Government Attorneys Association of Tanzania, held under the theme ‘Justice, Responsibility and the Rule of Law as the Foundation for the Implementation of the National Development Vision 2050’ on Monday.
Makalla said all roads associated with AFCON preparations are currently under construction as the government accelerates infrastructure development ahead of the continental football tournament. He said contractors have been directed to work around the clock to ensure the projects are completed within the agreed timelines.
“We will not let you down, Madam President (Samia Suluhu Hassan), Arusha is ready for AFCON, and we are working closely with the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports and all stakeholders to ensure the preparations are completed on time,” Makalla said.
He added that construction of the region’s modern AFCON stadium has reached 85 per cent completion, reflecting steady progress in preparations for the tournament.
Makalla also thanked President Samia for allocating funds for the installation of an airfield lighting system at Arusha Airport, saying the project is progressing well and is expected to be completed in August this year.
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Once completed, the system will enable aircraft to land and take off around the clock, significantly improving the airport’s capacity to handle the influx of local and international visitors expected during AFCON 2027.
In addition, he commended the Head of State for approving the construction of the major international convention centre in Arusha, noting that work has already begun. He said the facility will strengthen the city’s position as one of Africa’s leading destinations for conferences, meetings and exhibitions.
According to Makalla, Arusha has continued to benefit from the government’s decision to host major national events in the region, a move that has stimulated economic activity and boosted incomes for residents through increased opportunities in the tourism, trade and service sectors.
Tanzania will co-host next year’s Africa Cup of Nations final together with Kenya and Uganda.