Business opportunities await as East Africa hosts CHAN
TANZANIA: AS East African nations Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda gear up to host the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), a wave of business opportunities is on the horizon.
Scheduled to take place from February 1st to 28th, this tournament will draw football fans, players and officials from across the continent, transforming the region into a vibrant hub of activity.
This will be the eighth edition of CHAN, a unique competition that exclusively features players from domestic leagues.
It offers a critical platform for local talent to showcase their skills on an international stage.
With numerous scouts expected to attend, standout performers may secure lucrative deals, either within Africa or abroad, potentially changing the trajectory of their careers.
The anticipation surrounding the tournament has been further heightened by the recent confirmation of hosting venues by CAF President Patrice Motsepe.
This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time East Africa hosts a continental football competition for national teams.
Additionally, CHAN will serve as a prelude to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, also jointly hosted by these three nations, providing a valuable opportunity to refine logistics and infrastructure in preparation for the larger event.
Economic opportunities for local businesses
The influx of visitors for the CHAN presents significant economic opportunities for businesses across the host nations.
Anticipating thousands of fans and officials, local economies stand to benefit immensely. There will be increased demand for accommodation, food, transportation and various services.
Traders and entrepreneurs can capitalise on this event by offering unique products and experiences tailored to tourists.
Preparation is essential for local businesses to maximise these economic benefits. Investing in infrastructure, enhancing service quality and promoting local products will be crucial.
Collaboration between the public and private sectors is vital to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for visitors.
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Local authorities, including the National Sports Council (NSC), have already started strategising for the successful hosting of the tournament.
General Secretary Neema Msitha emphasised that meetings are underway to ensure everything is in place.
Notably, some venues in Kenya are currently undergoing renovations to meet international standards, showcasing the commitment of the host nations to improve football infrastructure.
Importance of cross-border collaboration
While local traders should focus on their home markets, there is also an opportunity for crossborder collaboration.
Traders from Tanzania could explore markets in Kenya and Uganda, and vice versa. This regional exchange will not only diversify offerings but also enhance the overall experience for visitors.
As each nation brings its unique products to the table, the combined efforts can lead to a richer tourism experience, where the economic benefits are shared across borders.
Visitors will seek a variety of services to ensure their stay is memorable. Comfortable accommodations, delicious local cuisine and unique souvenirs will be in high demand.
Transportation services will also be crucial, as attendees move between match venues and attractions.
Building excitement ahead of the tournament
The recent CHAN tournament in 2023 saw Senegal triumph over Algeria and teams like Morocco and DR Congo, who have each won the title twice since the tournament’s inception in 2009, will be keen to prove them once again.
In conclusion, the 2025 CHAN in East Africa is not just a sporting event; it represents a unique opportunity for economic growth and regional collaboration.
By harnessing the excitement of this tournament, local businesses can thrive, showcasing the rich culture and hospitality of East Africa while making the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.
