As Tanzania prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), attention is increasingly turning to what the country will retain after the tournament ends.
Beyond the excitement of football, the government is investing in tourism and sports infrastructure aimed at generating long-term economic and social benefits through job creation, tourism growth and improved public facilities.
Among the key projects are developments being implemented by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) at Makuyuni Wildlife Park in Arusha, Wami-Mbiki Wildlife Management Area in the Coast and Morogoro regions, and Pande Game Reserve in Dar es Salaam.
During an inspection of the projects on July 23, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Hassan Abbasi, reviewed progress on an Olympic-standard swimming pool, football pitches, volleyball courts and tennis courts under construction at Pande. The facilities are being financed through the Tourism Development Levy (TDL) Fund.
The projects form part of a broader strategy to ensure investments made for AFCON continue to benefit Tanzanians long after the tournament concludes.
While the facilities are expected to support training and recreational activities during AFCON, they are also intended to strengthen domestic tourism and expand access to modern sports infrastructure for local communities.
Pande Game Reserve, located within Dar es Salaam, is expected to offer visitors an opportunity to combine wildlife experiences with recreational activities, broadening the city's tourism appeal during the continental tournament.
With thousands of visitors anticipated from across Africa and beyond, the government expects increased demand for accommodation, transport, restaurants, tour operators and other tourism-related services, creating opportunities for businesses and local entrepreneurs.
The infrastructure is also expected to provide lasting benefits for residents by offering venues for sports development, community recreation and youth talent nurturing.
Beyond construction, the facilities are expected to support employment for coaches, maintenance personnel, lifeguards, tour guides and hospitality workers, contributing to long-term livelihoods.
The tournament is also viewed as an opportunity to showcase Tanzania's capacity to host major international events while promoting its tourism attractions and investment potential to millions of viewers worldwide.
Speaking during the inspection, Dr Abbasi emphasised the importance of delivering the projects on schedule and to the required standards, saying quality infrastructure would continue serving the country for decades through tourism, sports and economic development.
As preparations gather pace, AFCON 2027 is increasingly being viewed not only as a football tournament but also as a catalyst for infrastructure investment and sustainable growth.
The success of the event, stakeholders say, will ultimately be measured by the legacy it leaves for Tanzanians after the final whistle.
