Zanzibar is banking on the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to accelerate economic growth, with the Revolutionary Government investing heavily in sports infrastructure and related facilities expected to boost tourism, attract investment and create jobs.
Officials overseeing Tanzania's preparations for the continental football showpiece say the tournament is being viewed not only as a sporting event but also as a catalyst for long-term economic transformation.
The remarks were made on Thursday, July 2, during an inspection tour of key AFCON projects in Zanzibar led by the Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister's Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities), Dr Jim Yonazi, who also chairs the National Permanent Secretaries Committee coordinating Tanzania's preparations for AFCON 2027.
The delegation visited the under-construction Fumba Stadium in the Urban West Region and the New Amaan Complex, where renovation works are progressing to ensure both venues meet the standards required by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Speaking after the inspection, Dr Yonazi said the government was satisfied with the pace of implementation, noting that the preparations form part of a broader national strategy to maximise the economic and social benefits of hosting Africa's biggest football tournament.
"Tanzania has invested considerable resources because AFCON is more than a football competition. It is a strategic opportunity to showcase the country, promote our tourism attractions, stimulate investment and strengthen our economy," he said.
He said the government's preparations extend beyond stadium construction and rehabilitation to include improvements in road infrastructure, security, hospitality services and international tourism promotion.
According to Dr Yonazi, the tournament is also expected to strengthen youth football development, expand employment opportunities and reinforce Tanzania's sports diplomacy across the continent.
He noted that renovation works at the New Amaan Complex include upgrading the playing surface, seating facilities, floodlights and other critical infrastructure to comply with CAF's technical requirements.
The committee also assessed progress on the construction of the modern Zanzibar Arena at Fumba, a flagship project expected to become one of the country's premier sporting facilities after the tournament.
Dr Yonazi urged the private sector to position itself to benefit from the commercial opportunities expected to emerge before and during the championship, particularly in tourism, hospitality, transport, entertainment and cultural industries.
"The tournament presents enormous opportunities for businesses. We encourage investors and service providers to prepare early so that Tanzania fully benefits from hosting AFCON 2027," he said.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary in Zanzibar's Second Vice President's Office, Salhina Mwita, said the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar was committed to completing all assigned projects on time, including the rehabilitation of training grounds that will be used by participating national teams.
"We appreciate the committee's visit and guidance. We remain committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure Zanzibar is fully prepared to host a successful AFCON tournament," Mr Mwita said.
Tanzania will co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Kenya and Uganda, marking the first time East Africa will stage the continent's premier football championship.
Beyond football, the tournament is expected to deliver lasting economic benefits through infrastructure development, increased tourist arrivals and greater private-sector investment.
