Infrastructure and tourism development for AFCON 2027.
National team preparation programs launched.
Celebrating individual and team sports achievements.
Encouraging football club successes in continental competitions.
Three years ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, which will be jointly hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, the Tanzanian government has announced that preparations are nearing completion. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa provided a detailed update on the government’s multifaceted strategy during a Parliament session, underscoring efforts in infrastructure, sports development, and national pride.
Strategic Infrastructure and Development
Prime Minister Majaliwa emphasized the importance of infrastructure in hosting a successful AFCON. “We have a comprehensive strategy that includes the construction and refurbishment of essential facilities,” he announced. This plan aims to ensure that Tanzania meets the international standards required for hosting such a prestigious tournament.
Beyond stadiums and training facilities, the strategy also encompasses tourism market development. By boosting tourism, Tanzania aims to showcase its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty to the international audience flocking for the AFCON 2027.
National Team Preparations
A crucial aspect of the strategy focuses on preparing the national team for the competition. The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and the government have launched various programs to nurture young talent. “We are investing in our youth teams, including under 17, 20, and 23 squads, and tapping into the potential of diaspora players,” Majaliwa explained.
The preparation includes enhancing strategic plans for acquiring sports equipment, upgrading coaching benches, organizing nutrition programs, and ensuring the national team coach’s remuneration is adequately financed.
Security and Public Awareness
Security measures and public awareness campaigns are also key components of the strategy. Ensuring the safety of participants and spectators is paramount, and the government is committed to implementing robust security protocols. Additionally, public awareness campaigns aim to foster national pride and support for the event.
Celebrating Individual Achievements in Sports
Prime Minister Majaliwa also took the opportunity to celebrate individual achievements in various sports disciplines. In golf, Madina Iddi was commended for her victories in the Ghana Ladies Golf Open and the Kenya Ladies Golf Open, as well as her strong performances in other regional tournaments. The national ladies’ golf team, including captain Hawa Wanyeche, Vicky Elias, Neema Olomi, and Madina, brought Tanzania into the spotlight by clinching the regional title in Kigali, Rwanda.
Boxing and Athletics Success
In boxing, the Prime Minister praised the national team for winning three bronze medals at the All-African Games held in Ghana. Special mention was made of Yusuph Changarawe for his knockout victory over Venezuela’s Pereira Diego in the Olympic Paris 2024 qualifiers, and Hassan Mwakinyo for winning the WBO Africa Middleweight title in January 2024.
In athletics, congratulations were extended to Gabriel Geay, Alphonce Simbu, Magdalena Shauri, and Jackline Sekilu for qualifying for the upcoming Olympics in Paris, scheduled for July this year. The achievements of the national swimming and karate teams were also acknowledged, as they continue to represent Tanzania with distinction in various competitions.
Club Football Achievements
Majaliwa highlighted the successes of Tanzanian football clubs on the continental stage. Young Africans and Azam FC secured spots in the upcoming CAF Champions League, while Simba and Coastal Union earned tickets for the CAF Confederation Cup next season. The Premier also lauded Young Africans for winning the Premier League title and FA Cup, and Simba for their victory in the Mapinduzi Cup.
