Samia Suluhu Stadium: A Look Inside the Progress of the Ksh 16 Billion Project Ahead of AFCON 2027

The skyline of Arusha is currently dominated by a striking V-shaped silhouette ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

As of Wednesday, April 22, the Samia Suluhu Stadium, named in honour of the President, has reached its final phase and is steadily taking shape in the race against time.

With the structural skeleton now fully complete, the project, which costs about Ksh 16 billion, is currently estimated to be between 70% and 90% complete.

The unique V-shaped aesthetic is inspired by the Tanzanite gemstone, which is found exclusively in the Arusha region. The project recently celebrated a major milestone with the topping-out stage.

Most notably, the main canopy roof, a complex engineering feat, is now finished, providing a glimpse of the grand atmosphere fans can expect during match days.

With the heavy lifting of the main structure largely behind them, contractors have shifted their focus to the internal finishes.

This includes the installation of electrical systems, mechanical engineering components, and a robust ICT infrastructure. The integration of high-speed IT systems is also underway to ensure the stadium meets international broadcasting standards and provides a seamless digital experience for 30,000 spectators.

Simultaneously, specialised teams are fixing the drainage systems and laying the groundwork for the pitch infrastructure, ensuring the playing surface remains pristine even under heavy equatorial rains.

As part of the "Pamoja" bid alongside Kenya and Uganda, Tanzania is under the continental spotlight to deliver infrastructure that rivals the best in the world ahead of AFCON 2027.

The facility is firmly on track for its July 2026 completion date, allowing for a full year of shakedown events and surface testing before the best footballers in Africa arrive on its doorstep.