The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has temporarily suspended Benjamin Mkapa Stadium due to the ongoing deterioration of its playing surface.
Clifford Mario Ndimbo, the Information and Communications Officer for the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), confirmed that CAF has instructed the stadium's management to urgently improve the pitch to meet the required standards, in order to avoid a longer suspension.
Ndimbo also stated that the quarter-final match of the CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) between Simba SC and Egypt's Al Masry is scheduled for April 9 this year at the stadium.
"To avoid any disruptions, TFF has been instructed to submit the name of an alternative venue for Simba’s match by March 14. CAF will conduct an inspection of the proposed venue on March 20," he said.
Additionally, Ndimbo explained that CAF will conduct a thorough inspection of Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on March 20, 2025, to evaluate the improvements made.
Based on the findings, CAF will decide whether the stadium can continue to be used or if the suspension will extend.
Apart from the CAFCC matches, Ndimbo mentioned that Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will also be used to host the CHAN finals, which are scheduled for August this year.