Finals hosting beckons investments

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has called on stakeholders to come together and embrace various opportunities that come with the advantage of hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.

This was remarked recently by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Sports Gerson Msigwa as he reacted after the Pamoja Bid won to host the 2027 AFCON finale.

“Aside from the organising committee formed by the three countries and chaired by responsible ministers, we are going to establish a local organising committee that will comprise stakeholders ranging from hotels, tourism and other sectors,” Msigwa said.

He also pointed out that President Samia Suluhu Hassan has already directed for the speedy construction of two new stadiums in Dodoma and Arusha with each slated to have a seating capacity of 30,000 people.

“Also, renovation works at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium are unfolding well with over 31bn/- allocated for its facelift exercise.

“Soon, Uhuru Stadium will also begin to be renovated including other various venues to be used for training purposes as demand will be high and also, the refurbishment of Amani Stadium in Zanzibar is set to be completed later this year,” he said.

On his part, Director of Sports in the Ministry for Culture, Arts and Sports Ally Mayay revealed that for a country to host AFCON finals, it should have eight CAF standard stadiums.

“But for us, because we are jointly hosting this competition, each country should have three CAF standard venues and, in this case, Tanzania will use Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Amani Stadium and the new stadium to be constructed in Arusha,” he said.

Again, he appreciated immense support from the government saying it is always upfront in making sure that Tanzania forges ahead when it comes to sports development.