Tanzania steps up eco-tourism drive ahead of AFCON 2027

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA is upgrading eco-tourism infrastructure in forest reserves to capitalise on the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, with new accommodation and visitor facilities planned ahead of the competition.

The initiative is being led by the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) in partnership with tourism stakeholders, focusing on sites including the Lake Duluti Forest Reserve in Arusha Region.

Tourism officer Batholomeo Msensemya said improvements include the construction of lodges and other accommodation within forest reserves to meet expected demand.

“We are strengthening infrastructure and encouraging investment so the country can fully benefit from AFCON 2027,” he said.

He added, the move is aimed at attracting more visitors during the tournament, which Tanzania will co-host with Kenya and Uganda in cities including Dar es Salaam, Dodoma and Arusha.

He said at least 30 accommodation units had already been built at Lake Duluti, with the capacity to host up to 60 visitors a day.

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Msensemya also urged young people to take advantage of the opportunity by investing in tourism-related services such as boat rides, food vending and transport.

“In our reserve, there is a lake, which offers opportunities for canoeing, fishing and other activities that can attract visitors,” he said.

Private investors are also expanding facilities. At Meru Eco Camp, new eco-friendly lodges and camping services are being developed to accommodate more guests.

Recreational manager Maxmilian Thobias said the camp was upgrading its services to align with conservation principles while increasing capacity.

“We plan to provide modern accommodation that supports environmental conservation and attracts more visitors,” he said.