The government has endorsed the Tanzania Forest Services Agency's (TFS) investment in tourism infrastructure at Lake Duluti, saying the upgrades will strengthen the country's readiness to host visitors during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) while expanding the long-term value of its nature-based tourism assets.
The Acting Director of Forestry and Beekeeping at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr Daniel Pancrasi, made the remarks after inspecting ongoing improvements at the Lake Duluti tourism site in Arusha.
The inspection focused on infrastructure being developed by TFS, including accommodation facilities, restaurants and visitor amenities designed to enhance the site's capacity to serve both domestic and international tourists.
Mr Pancrasi said the progress demonstrated the government's broader strategy of using AFCON 2027 not only as a sporting event but also as an opportunity to showcase Tanzania's tourism destinations and generate economic benefits through increased visitor spending.
"For a long time we have received progress reports on these preparations, but seeing the work on the ground gives confidence that TFS is delivering tangible results. These investments will strengthen our ability to host international visitors and create lasting value for the tourism sector," he said.
He noted that the improvements at Lake Duluti would raise service standards and enhance the competitiveness of one of northern Tanzania's key tourism attractions, positioning it to benefit from the expected influx of visitors during the continental football tournament.
TFS Head of Tourism, Chief Conservator PCO Someni Mteleka, said the Lake Duluti project is part of a wider programme to upgrade tourism attractions managed by the agency ahead of AFCON 2027.
He said the investment includes improved accommodation, dining facilities, visitor reception services and nature-based tourism activities to ensure the destination meets international hospitality standards.
According to Mr Mteleka, the agency is implementing the government's directive to leverage AFCON 2027 as a platform for promoting Tanzania's tourism industry beyond the tournament itself.
He added that Lake Duluti has been identified as one of the destinations expected to accommodate and entertain visitors attending the championship, while continuing to serve as a tourism asset long after the event concludes.
The inspection reflects the government's emphasis on ensuring that investments linked to AFCON 2027 leave a lasting legacy by improving tourism infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences and increasing the international visibility of Tanzania's natural attractions.
