By The Respondents reporter
Tanzania will begin grading and regrading hotels and food service providers in key regions as part of preparations for the expected surge in visitors during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The initiative, led by the tourism department in collaboration with the ministry’s communications unit, will be rolled out between May and June 2026 in Dar es Salaam, Morogoro and Kilimanjaro regions.
Tourism Director Thereza Mugobi said the exercise is a routine but critical step to ensure the country meets international hospitality standards ahead of Africa Cup of Nations 2027, which Tanzania will co-host with regional partners.
“The process aims to improve service quality and position Tanzania as a competitive tourism and hospitality destination in Africa,” Mugobi said in a statement.
The assessment will involve detailed inspections of hotel infrastructure, hygiene, food quality and customer service to ensure compliance with global standards.
Authorities expect the tournament to attract a significant influx of international visitors, placing increased demand on accommodation and related services.
Hotel owners and service providers have been urged to use the exercise as an opportunity to evaluate and upgrade their facilities to attract and retain guests before, during and after the tournament.
Under the programme, hotels will be assigned star ratings based on performance, with high-performing establishments upgraded and those falling short downgraded.
Officials say the move is part of broader efforts to strengthen Tanzania’s tourism sector and maximise economic gains linked to major international events.
