ARUSHA STADIUM PROJECT: Nchemba hails progress
DAR ES SALAAM: PRIME Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has expressed satisfaction with the progress of construction at the Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium in Arusha, while directing contractors to sustain both speed and quality.
During an inspection of the project, he commended the standard of work and encouraged the construction teams to keep up the momentum, insisting that, if needed, they work day and night to ensure completion ahead of the July deadline. The stadium is among the venues being prepared to host matches during the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, which Tanzania will co-host alongside Kenya and Uganda.
“We must intensify our efforts and, if possible, complete the work before the deadline,” he said. “Given that the competitions are expected in June or July, inspections will come earlier.
We must work day and night to ensure we avoid unnecessary shortcomings.” In addition, he highlighted plans to install approximately 200 CCTV cameras at the stadium to enhance security and ensure proper monitoring during matches.
“I am pleased to hear that around 200 cameras will be installed,” he said.
“Such comprehensive surveillance, nothing will go unnoticed, across the facility and help deter activities that could harm the venue, including ritualistic or superstitious practices that have occasionally been associated with some teams.”
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He further noted that upon completion, the project is expected to transform the city of Arusha, improving its overall outlook through upgraded infrastructure, including a four-way road network, and stimulating business activities in the area.
“The completion of this project will give Arusha a new look,” he said, “both in terms of infrastructure and economic opportunities.” The Minister for Information, Arts, Culture and Sports, Paul Makonda, said that once completed, the modern stadium would help place Tanzania firmly on the global sporting stage.
He said the facility is distinctive and will rank among the top three in Africa, reflecting Tanzania’s cultural identity through elements inspired by Maasai heritage and the country’s mineral wealth, including gold and tanzanite.
Makonda added that the stadium will include eight VVIP suites named after prominent national figures, among them the late Edward Moringe Sokoine. It will also feature 19 commercial spaces aimed at boosting economic activity.
The venue is designed to accommodate more than 5,000 vehicles outside and over 8,000 within its grounds, supported by modern access roads. More than 200 highquality floodlights will be installed to provide advanced illumination.
Project supervisor Dennis Denito said substantial progress had been made between September 2024 and April 2026, including completion of the roofing, installation of natural turf, water systems and lighting. For spectators, the design includes organised entry systems and a range of services such as banking facilities and mobile network access.
The Director of Roads at Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency, Engineer Venant Komba, said construction had begun on enough roads serving the stadium.
Acting Arusha Regional Commissioner, who also serves as Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner, Nurdin Babu, said the project would be a source of pride for the Arusha Region. He added that authorities would work closely together to ensure timely completion while minimising disruption to residents.
