Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa is set to officiate the opening ceremony of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, which officially kicks off on August 2, 2025, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The announcement was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Sports, who also serves as the Government Spokesperson, Mr. Gerson Msigwa, during an inspection of the stadium's preparations on July 28, 2025.
Mr. Msigwa revealed that five participating nations Burkina Faso, Algeria, the Central African Republic, Mauritania, and Madagascar have already started arriving in the country as of July 28.
“In the lead-up to the official launch, the public will enjoy vibrant music performances through the CHAN Singeli Fest, which will feature top Singeli artists. The entertainment event will take place outside the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on July 30 and 31, and admission will be free,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of the tournament, Mr. Msigwa said CHAN 2024 serves as a strategic opportunity for Tanzania as it gears up to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.
He underscored that the event allows the nation to test its readiness and warmly welcome guests, adding that travel procedures into the country have been simplified to accommodate visitors more efficiently.
He also urged Tanzanian journalists to seize the opportunity presented by CHAN to showcase the country’s vast potential in tourism, investment, and culture to a global audience.
“This is the time for the media to amplify Tanzania’s visibility on the world stage. Let us tell our stories, highlight our strengths, and attract the world to explore and invest in our country,” he said.
The CHAN 2024 tournament will feature national teams composed exclusively of players active in their domestic leagues, offering a platform to spotlight local football talent across Africa.