Ferdinand sees hosting AFCON as a major boost to Tanzania’s tourism

DAR ES SALAAM: Former Manchester United captain and England international Rio Ferdinand has said Tanzania’s preparations for the upcoming AFCON 2027 present a major opportunity to boost the country’s tourism sector.

Ferdinand said he has closely observed the preparations and believes Tanzania’s natural attractions, including Mount Kilimanjaro, can play a key role in attracting international visitors and strengthening the economy through tourism.

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He made the statement today, May 20, 2026, when travelling aboard Tanzania’s Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, where he is also expected to observe proceedings of the Parliament of Tanzania.

Ferdinand is currently in Tanzania on a sports and tourism visit, during which he is scheduled to tour Serengeti National Park as well as an under-construction sports stadium in Arusha on May 21, 2026.

His visit is part of broader efforts to promote Tanzania’s sporting profile and tourism potential ahead of major continental sporting events.