AFCON 2027: Tanzania targets August 2026 completion of infrastructure projects

The Tanzanian government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering all key sports infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with August 2026 set as the deadline for completion of major facilities in host cities.

Speaking in Parliament in Dodoma on Monday, Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda, said significant progress has already been made in preparing venues in Dar es Salaam and Arusha, which are expected to play central roles in hosting the continental tournament.

Makonda revealed that the renovation of the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is now 95 percent complete, putting the country firmly on track to meet its targets. He added that three training venues Gymkhana, Major General Isamuhyo Stadium, and the Law School grounds have already been fully upgraded and are ready for use.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Baraza la Michezo la Taifa (@nsc_bmt)

At the same time, construction work is underway on three additional training facilities, including Farasi Grounds, Leaders Club, and another Gymkhana venue, all of which are currently at early stages of development.

Substantial progress made on AFCON-related projects

In Arusha, the government is overseeing the construction of a new 32,000-seat stadium, which Makonda said has reached 77.5 percent completion. Additionally, a dedicated training ground within the Arusha stadium complex is progressing steadily and is currently 60 percent complete.

“These projects are part of our broader commitment to ensure Tanzania is fully prepared to host AFCON 2027,” Makonda told lawmakers, emphasizing the importance of timely delivery and quality infrastructure to meet international standards.

Beyond AFCON-related developments, the minister highlighted several other strategic investments aimed at boosting sports development across the country. These include the construction of a sports academy at the Malya College of Sports Development, which is currently 49 percent complete, and a new 32,500-capacity stadium in Dodoma, where construction has just begun and stands at five percent.

The government is also investing in community sports and recreation facilities. A public training and recreational center in Dodoma has reached 73.5 percent completion, while a similar facility in Dar es Salaam is at 49 percent.

Meanwhile, renovation work at the historic Uhuru Stadium has reached 70 percent, further strengthening the country’s readiness to host major competitions.

Makonda stressed that these infrastructure projects are not only aimed at hosting AFCON 2027 but also at creating long term benefits for Tanzanian sports by nurturing talent and improving access to modern facilities for citizens.

With less than two years remaining before the tournament, Tanzania’s preparations appear to be gaining momentum, signaling the country’s ambition to successfully stage one of Africa’s biggest football events.