AFCON 2027: Tanzania’s fast pace deserves applause

DAR ES SALAAM: CONGRATULATIONS are in order for the Tanzanian government for the speed and seriousness with which it is preparing for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The investments being made into our sports infrastructure are not only timely, but also truly impressive.

Uhuru Stadium in Dar es Salaam is being transformed, the pitch is being redone, the running track improved, seating upgraded and modern washrooms installed.

The entire venue, inside and out, is getting the attention it has long deserved. This is real progress, and it is happening fast.

In Arusha, the new stadium, to be named Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium is also taking shape. The foundation is complete, and the structure is already rising as the roof and shading preparations begin.

The project is clearly moving with urgency, backed by a clear vision. Across the country, similar upgrades and new constructions are underway.

Old venues are being improved and new ones are being built; almost every week Tanzania is truly on the move.

This momentum must be recognised and matched. It is not enough to build stadia. We must fill them with talent.

We must use them to nurture future stars. These facilities must not become white elephants after the final whistle of the AFCON 2027.

This is a rare opportunity for Tanzania not just to host a tournament, but to lay a solid foundation for sporting excellence.

The infrastructure is coming into place. Now it’s time for football academies, athletics clubs, schools and community teams to step in.

Let’s put our youth on these pitches. Let’s turn training into trophies.

These venues must be more than just matchday attractions. They must be everyday development centres places where children train, coaches develop and national teams prepare to compete and win. Let them serve future generations. Let them inspire dreams and careers.

To the private sector, now is the time to invest in talent development.

To the public, support local sports.

To our young athletes – use the fields being prepared, now run, train and compete. Let these stadiums bring not just events, but enduring impact.

AFCON 2027 is coming. The stadia are rising. The government has done its part. Now the rest of us must rise to the occasion.