Deputy Minister for Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Hamis Mwinjuma, has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing construction of the Gymkhana training ground, which is being prepared for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) scheduled for February 2025.
The tournament will be co-hosted by three East African nations—Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the Gymkhana training ground in Dar es Salaam today, Deputy Minister Mwinjuma affirmed that preparations are on track for the highly anticipated competition.
He reported that construction work at the Gymkhana grounds and the nearby Law School training field has reached 50% completion.
"The initial contract stipulated a three-month completion timeline starting from November. However, due to delays in importing certain materials, the contractor has committed to handing over the project by January 21, 2025. We would have preferred completion earlier, but this adjustment is reasonable," he said.
Highlighting key features of the training grounds, Mwinjuma stated, "The requirements for CAF approval include lighting, changing rooms, and goal nets.
We witnessed similar standards in Ivory Coast, and we are confident we will achieve 100% readiness."
He further noted that efforts are being made to ensure the water infrastructure is reliable, in coordination with the relevant ministry.
Colonel Shija Rupi, Deputy Executive Secretary of Suma JKT, the contractor for the project, assured that the work is progressing as planned.
"The Deputy Minister has seen our efforts, and we are committed to delivering the grounds by January 21, 2025," he said.
The inspection tour is set to continue tomorrow, with visits planned to the General Major Isamuhyo Stadium and the Law School training field.