Government assures of Mkapa Stadium readiness

DAR ES SALAAM: THE ongoing renovations at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium are progressing well, with the majority of the recommendations from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) being implemented effectively.

The assurance was given by Gerson Msigwa, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, following CAF’s decision to relocate the second-leg final of the CAF Confederation Cup between Simba SC and RS Berkane to the New Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, scheduled for May 25.

Msigwa emphasised on Thursday that the government’s awareness of the importance of the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, especially as it serves as the primary venue for international football events hosted in Tanzania.

“The government has taken all necessary steps to ensure the stadium meets international standards, particularly ahead of major fixtures such as continental finals.

“One of the key improvements includes the complete overhaul of the pitch drainage system that was bothersome during heavy rainfall. The new system is now fully operational and ad dresses one of CAF’s main concerns,” he stated.

He further clarified that the decision regarding match venues lies not with the government, but with the relevant football authorities at national and continental levels.

“It is not within the government’s mandate to decide where matches should be played. That responsibility rests with football governing bod ies, including CAF. Our role is to provide and maintain the required infrastructure,” he explained.

Msigwa reported that the pitch is now in excellent condition.

“The facility is fully ready for use and we are confident it meets all of CAF’s standards. We have worked diligently and efficiently to up grade the stadium ahead of the scheduled final.

“Particular attention was given to resolving issues in the pitch area, especially with water drainage. Now, the drainage system ensures water does not accumulate, even during heavy rains,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Msigwa highlighted the government’s broader efforts to expand Tanzania’s sports infrastructure.

“We recognise the challenges of depending on a single stadium, which is why we are constructing two additional international standard stadiums, one in Arusha and another in Dodoma.”