By Alfred Zacharia
The Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) has stepped up efforts to fast-track construction of key access roads to the planned AFCON stadium in Arusha, with authorities setting a firm completion deadline of May 2027 ahead of the continental tournament.
TARURA Chief Executive, Eng. Victor Seff, said the government is prioritising the 21.4-kilometre road project to ensure infrastructure readiness before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), underscoring the strategic role of transport networks in hosting major international events.
During an inspection tour of the project, Eng. Seff said initial works have already commenced on the Essuri road section, while other segments are pending completion of compensation processes for affected residents.
“The government’s objective is clear—these roads must be completed by May 2027 so they are ready ahead of AFCON,” he said, adding that engagement with affected communities is ongoing to facilitate smooth project implementation.
The project is being executed under the Design and Build model, a procurement approach typically adopted where timelines are tight, with all procurement processes already completed.
TARURA said it will maintain close supervision to ensure the contractor meets required standards and deadlines, given the fixed timeline linked to the tournament schedule.
China Railway Construction Engineering Group has already mobilised on site and begun work on the 2.45-kilometre Essuri road, which also includes construction of a 100-metre bridge.
Eng. Seff said the 2.75-kilometre Lendita road, which is planned as a four-lane carriageway, will be implemented in the second phase alongside a bridge, while the 6.5-kilometre Mateves road will be developed in two segments of 5.5 kilometres as a two-lane road and one kilometre upgraded to four lanes.
He noted that beyond improving access to the stadium, the project will enhance TARURA’s experience in managing Design and Build projects, while addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges in surrounding communities.
The project is also expected to generate employment opportunities for local residents, with Eng. Seff encouraging youth in nearby areas to take advantage of available jobs to gain income and work experience.
Project supervisors have been urged to maintain strict oversight to ensure timely delivery, especially as AFCON 2027 is scheduled to kick off in July that year.
Meanwhile, project consultant Eng. Idephonce Karol from Afrisa Construction Engineering Group said preliminary activities are progressing well following the official start of the project on April 1, 2026.
He said the team has completed mobilisation of experts, carried out surveys across all three road sections, conducted soil investigations, assessed construction materials and cleared 1.8 kilometres of the Essuri road.
“We understand the importance of this project and are fully prepared. We will work day and night to ensure it is completed on time,” he said.
Timely delivery of supporting infrastructure will be critical in determining Tanzania’s readiness to co-host AFCON 2027, particularly in ensuring efficient mobility for teams, officials and fans.
