Tanzania embraces CHAN finals delay for better preparation

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Deputy Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Hamisi Mwinjuma, has stated that the six-month delay of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) will provide essential time to enhance preparations and improve sports infrastructure.

Mwinjuma made the remarks during a sports stakeholders’ forum held in Dar es Salaam, where it was noted that the CHAN finals, initially scheduled for February this year, have been rescheduled to August by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

During his address, Mwinjuma highlighted that the delay presents an opportunity for further improvements. He expressed that the additional time would allow Tanzania to refine its plans and ensure that the tournament stands out.

“Tanzania was 90 per cent ready for the tournament, but the additional time will allow us to fine-tune the final details and ensure the event meets the highest standards. Moreover, this forum serves as a platform for Tanzania to identify and seize opportunities effectively. Our goal is to ensure that CHAN brings benefits to all of us,” Mwinjuma stated at the forum.

The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary and Government’s Spokesperson, Gerson Msigwa, echoed Mwinjuma’s sentiments, highlighting that the delay will provides valuable time to complete upgrades to key stadia and training facilities.

“We had already made significant progress, with major stadiums like Major General Isamuhyo, Gymkhana, and Law School being 90 per cent ready. The extra months will allow us to further enhance these facilities and ensure they are fully equipped to host the event,” Msigwa noted.

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Chairperson of the National Sports Council (BMT), Leodeger Tenga, also welcomed the decision, describing the delay as a significant relief.

He pointed out that the initial three-month preparation period was too short for such a high-profile tournament, but he remained confident that the event could have been successfully hosted even under the tight timeline.

“The delay has given us more time to ensure that everything is in excellent condition. Our key venues, like Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and New Amaan Complex, are already in great shape and the additional time allows us to refine the final details,” Tenga explained.

Furthermore, Tenga highlighted the economic and social opportunities that the tournament will bring to Tanzania.

He stressed that the extended preparation period gives the country a greater chance to maximise these benefits.

“We must fully leverage the opportunities presented by CHAN 2025, not only in terms of sports but also for economic growth and social cohesion in our country,” Tenga added.