Mkapa Stadium set for renovation

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has advised football clubs seeking to use Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam to secure alternative venues ahead of upcoming renovations to avoid disruptions.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports and Chief Government Spokesperson, Gerson Msigwa, explained that the advisory aims to pre- vent conflicts once the pitch upgrade begins.

“All those applying to use Benjamin Mkapa Stadium must understand that when we say look for another venue, they should do so without delay,” Msigwa stressed.

“We plan to carry out sur- face renovations, including removing the top layer of the pitch and during this period, misunderstandings cannot be tolerated.”

Among the clubs affected are Tanzania’s football giants, Simba SC and Young Africans (Yanga SC).

“I know both Simba and Yanga have applied to use the stadium,” Msigwa confirmed.

“Yanga included it in the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) fixtures, while Simba formally wrote to us. Simba has been granted permission to use the stadium, but only before renovations begin.”

He recalled challenges from previous renovation periods when the government allowed Simba to use the stadium, resulting in costly repairs.

“After the Simba versus Al Masry match, the stadium needed extensive fixes,” Msigwa admitted.

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“We ended up spending heavily on repairs because renovations were carried out while the stadium was still in use. This time, the government is firm on enforcing a full closure during renovation works.

“When we say the stadium is closed, whether to clubs or for any events, it must be respected. We cannot repeat past mistakes,” he declared.

Looking ahead to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AF- CON), which Tanzania will co-host alongside Kenya and Uganda, Msigwa emphasised the importance of delivering top-tier facilities.

“Many doubted East Africa’s ability to stage AFCON, preferring the tournament be held elsewhere.

But we proved our capacity during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and we succeeded,” he said.

Msigwa underscored that maintaining the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in prime condition is crucial for the tournament’s success.

While limited use may be allowed after renovations, preserving the pitch’s quality remains the priority.

Last March, CAF temporarily suspended the stadium due to the deteriorating playing surface, forcing Simba’s CAF Confederation Cup semi-final against South Africa’s Stellen- bosch to be relocated from Dar es Salaam.