AFCON 2027: Tanzania Pulls Ahead of Kenya and Uganda With New KSh 19 Billion Project

As Tanzania prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar has announced a major TSh 388.8 billion (about Ksh 19 billion) investment to construct a state-of-the-art sports and tourism hub named Afcon City.

Located in Fumba on Unguja Island, the ambitious project is a key part of Zanzibar's strategy to ensure it is fully equipped for Africa's premier football tournament while also boosting its tourism and economic sectors.

Afcon City is designed to offer world-class facilities for teams, officials, and fans from across the continent and beyond. The complex will include modern training grounds, accommodation, and other essential infrastructure to enhance the visitor experience.

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The project is intended to be a major tourist attraction that will solidify Zanzibar’s reputation as a leading international destination.

Tanzania has made significant progress in bringing the vision of Afcon City to life. Riziki Pembe Juma, Zanzibar’s Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, confirmed that construction is progressing well, with the project already 35 per cent complete.

The current work includes erecting the main structural framework, installing steel reinforcements, and building walls

"The completion level reflects how seriously the government is preparing to welcome visitors during AFCON 2027," Juma stated, according to the Citizen

Visiting teams scheduled to play in Zanzibar will have access to top-tier training facilities at the New Amaan Complex and the Suluhu Academy.

The government has emphasised that Afcon City's purpose extends beyond sports. It is envisioned as a major tourist attraction that will solidify Zanzibar's reputation as a leading international destination.

Minister Juma also urged residents and entrepreneurs to prepare for the business opportunities the project will generate, noting that the development is expected to stimulate economic growth, create employment, and attract further investment, promising a lasting legacy for Zanzibar's economy long after the tournament concludes.

Tanzania, alongside Kenya and Uganda, will host the AFCON 2027. Matches are scheduled to be held in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar, marking a significant milestone for football and economic development in the region.

The scale of investment in Afcon City and the pace of construction places Tanzania a step ahead of Kenya and Uganda in terms of infrastructure, training facilities, and fan experience.

The project demonstrates Tanzania’s leadership in regional football development and sports tourism. Minister Juma emphasised the long-term vision behind the project and expressed optimism about the impact it would have on the local economy and tourism sector.

"The completion level reflects how seriously the government is preparing to welcome visitors during AFCON 2027," he stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to leaving a lasting legacy.

The development is set to become a hub for both sports and tourism, ensuring that Zanzibar will not only host matches but also attract fans, investors, and tourists long after the tournament concludes.