By Sukhdev Chhatbar
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced that Arusha Airport will begin operating 24 hours a day starting January, next year, marking a major milestone in the city’s transformation into a regional hub for tourism, trade and investment.
Speaking during her visit to Arusha last week, President Samia said the government has already allocated TSh 17 billion for the ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of the airport. The project includes the installation of night-lighting systems, improved runways and upgraded safety infrastructure to support round-the-clock operations.
“Once these works are completed by the end of this year, Arusha Airport will handle both day and night flights from January,” she assured, noting that the move will open new opportunities for tourism, commerce and connectivity across northern Tanzania.
“Our goal is to make Arusha a vibrant gateway for both domestic and international travellers,” she told a large gathering of CCM supporters at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium.
Currently, Arusha Airport operates only during daylight hours, limiting flexibility for travellers. Extending operations into the night is expected to improve connectivity for international tourists, business travellers and cargo flows.
President Samia, who is CCM’s flag-bearer for the presidency in the October 29 general election, also reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to strengthening Arusha’s position as the country’s conference capital through the development of a new world-class facility.
The planned Mount Kilimanjaro International Conference Centre (MKICC) – a partnership between the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) and the Public Service Social Security Fund (PSSSF) – will accommodate up to 7,000 delegates and feature a five-star hotel, commercial space and other modern amenities.
The MKICC will enhance Tanzania’s capacity to host major continental and global meetings, placing Arusha on par with leading conference destinations such as Nairobi, Kigali and Addis Ababa.
In the realm of sports infrastructure, the construction of Arusha’s new AFCON stadium has reportedly progressed to over 60 per cent completion.This new venue, often being referred to as the Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium, is being built in the Olomoti area by China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG) at a cost of about Sh 286 billion (approx. US dollars 112 million).
It is expected to host matches in AFCON 2027, with full completion anticipated by mid to late 2026.Officials say the stadium’s design meets international standards, with features such as natural grass fields, modern lighting and fan amenities. Many see this as a flagship sports investment that will raise Arusha’s profile in the region.
Additionally, President Samia revealed that the government plans to launch a new railway project linking Tanga, Arusha and Musoma to facilitate smoother movement of goods and passengers between the northern corridor and the Lake Victoria zone. The proposed line will also connect with other national and regional networks, boosting intra-East African trade.
These announcements have been warmly welcomed by tourism stakeholders, hoteliers, and business leaders in Arusha. They say the combined effect of expanded airport hours, a world-class conference centre, robust railway connections and cutting-edge sports infrastructure will significantly bolster Arusha’s appeal as a tourism gateway and investment hub.
“This is a game-changer for Arusha’s economy,” said a local tour operator. “Longer airport hours mean more flight options, and the new stadium will attract sporting events which inject life into our hospitality and service sectors.”
