The Government has expressed satisfaction with the speed and quality (of construction of the Arusha Stadium, which will host matches for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON). The project is being implemented by the China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG) and is considered a key milestone in strengthening Tanzania China cooperation.
Deputy Minister for Information, Culture and Sports, Hamis Mwinjuma, visited the project site at the weekend to witness the completion of the first phase of concrete construction and the commencement of roof installation. He commended CRCEG for completing this phase 20 days ahead of schedule.
“This stadium is not only a structure, it is a symbol of strategic cooperation. It is connecting Tanzanian and Chinese companies, creating jobs, transferring skills to local experts, and strengthening relations between our two nations,” said Mwinjuma, who is also the Member of Parliament for Muheza.
The contract for the stadium’s design, construction, and procurement was signed on March 19, 2024, with construction works commencing officially on July 25, 2024. Within 236 days, the contractor has poured approximately 50,000 cubic meters of concrete an achievement Mwinjuma described as a sign of “professionalism, seriousness, and technical excellence.”
He also noted that the government has ensured timely payments and inter-agency coordination to avoid delays. “This cooperation is yielding results. The presence of the Ministry’s consultant, Dar Al-Handasah, and the on-site team has helped resolve challenges quickly and allowed the contractor to focus on quality work,” he said.
The stadium, which is expected to be completed by July 24, 2026, is one of several flagship projects under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership, aiming to enhance youth development, nurture sports talent, and promote healthy living.
“President Samia’s vision for sports development is clear, and this stadium will provide a strong foundation for Tanzania to host AFCON successfully in 2027,” Mwinjuma added.
Arusha Regional Commissioner Kenani Kihongosi echoed the Deputy Minister’s remarks, highlighting the project’s impact on employment, entrepreneurship, and regional tourism.
“More than TSh 338 billion is being invested in this facility. As a sports enthusiast myself, I am thrilled by the pace and quality of this work. It will leave a lasting legacy not just in infrastructure, but in opportunity,” said Kihongosi.
He pointed out that many youths and women have already benefited economically from the construction phase, and further gains are expected once the stadium is operational.
“When this stadium is completed, it will not only be a venue for matches but a catalyst for jobs, sports-related businesses, tourism, and national revenue growth. It will also boost Arusha’s image and visibility,” he emphasized.
Kihongosi assured CRCEG of the Regional Commissioner’s Office’s full support in administrative facilitation and supervision, urging all stakeholders to ensure value for money by managing funds and timelines responsibly.
He added that the project has opened up opportunities for local professionals to learn from international contractors, creating a knowledge base that can benefit future strategic developments in Tanzania.
CRCEG Chairman Wang Yusheng also praised the Tanzanian Government and all project stakeholders for their continued support, saying the stadium stands as a symbol of friendship and shared vision under the China-led “Belt and Road Initiative.”
“From the beginning, this project has faced challenges, but with teamwork and dedication, we completed the concrete phase in just 360 days 20 days ahead of time. This is an achievement we are proud of,” said Yusheng.
He confirmed that the stadium will be constructed to international standards and will not only host football matches but contribute to the economic and social development of the Arusha region and the country at large.
“This stadium is part of a broader vision to promote Tanzania’s image, boost its sports sector, and create a platform for growth. It will serve future generations and deepen China-Tanzania ties,” Yusheng concluded.
The Arusha stadium project is among the country’s top-tier preparations for hosting AFCON 2027. Its completion is expected to enhance Tanzania’s sports infrastructure, promote youth engagement, and raise the country’s standing in regional and continental football.