Dr Mwinyi elevates AFCON Stadium in Zanzibar to a global-level status
ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT of Zanzibar, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi said the AFCON Stadium being constructed in the Fumba area will be a modern, internationally recognised facility and a catalyst for opening up various opportunities for the public.
Dr Mwinyi made the remarks on August 18, 2026, while inspecting the progress of construction of the AFCON Stadium and Fumba Port in the Urban West Region.
He said completion of the stadium would place Zanzibar in a strong position to benefit from business, services and other economic opportunities arising from an increase in visitors, particularly during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
President Mwinyi said the government would continue ensuring that infrastructure surrounding the stadium is developed to high quality and internationally accepted standards, with the aim of increasing the value of the area and generating long-term benefits for Zanzibar.
Construction of the AFCON Stadium is currently about 80 per cent complete, with various supporting infrastructure projects also underway, including a modern road expected to improve transport and enhance the appearance and accessibility of the area.
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Dr Mwinyi also said the government is continuing to construct sports facilities in different parts of Zanzibar to nurture young talent and enable young people to participate in national and international competitions.
He commended Orkun Company for implementing the stadium project in accordance with high-quality and international standards, as well as for incorporating infrastructure that will enable the facility to host a range of sporting and social activities.
The Fumba AFCON Stadium will have a seating capacity of 36,500 spectators, in addition to two outdoor pitches, each with a capacity of 5,000 spectators.
The stadium is expected to be completed by the end of December 2026 and will form a key part of Zanzibar’s preparations for AFCON 2027.
