‘Fumba Stadium 81pc complete’

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR Second Vice-President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla has assured that the Fumba Stadium is on course to be completed by December or January, keeping it on track to host matches during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Hemed gave the assurance yesterday after inspecting construction progress at the strategic stadium project in Fumba, saying he was satisfied with the work and confident the venue would be ready in time for the continental tournament.

He said construction had reached 81 per cent completion, while more than 95 per cent of the required construction materials were already at the site, giving the government confidence that the remaining work could be completed on schedule.

“More than 95 per cent of the materials are already here. This has given me great confidence, and the contractors have assured me that there will be significant progress over the next two to three weeks,” Hemed said.

He said the government remained committed to fulfilling the government’s vision of having stadiums that meet AFCON standards. Hemed also sought to reassure Tanzanians who had expressed concerns over the pace of construction, saying the project was progressing well.

“I am confident that the stadium will be completed by December or January. So, do not be surprised if a Mapinduzi Cup match is played here, because the work is progressing well,” he said.

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He praised the contractors for working around the clock and said related works were also progressing to ensure the entire project was delivered as planned.

The Second Vice-President said the stadium was part of the government’s wider strategy to promote economic growth and provide Zanzibar with a modern sporting facility capable of supporting major events and contributing to the island’s development.

He commended President Mwinyi for his commitment to strategic development projects and praised the Ministry of Information, Arts, Culture and Sports for supervising the stadium project.

Hemed also pledged to make regular visits to monitor progress and encourage contractors and other stakeholders to maintain the pace of construction. Minister for Information, Arts, Culture and Sports Riziki Pembe Juma welcomed the visit, saying it provided an opportunity to assess the project and ensure government directives were being implemented.

She said the ministry would continue working closely with contractors and other stakeholders to maintain the momentum and ensure the stadium was completed within the expected timeframe.

With AFCON 2027 scheduled for June next year, the Fumba Stadium has become one of Zanzibar’s key preparations for the tournament, with the government now confident that the venue will be ready ahead of the competition.