BY THE ARUSHA NEWS REPORTER
Prime Minister, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, has strongly warned road contractors in Arusha to complete the work within the set timelines ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) or risk being fired.
During an impromptu inspection of ongoing infrastructure works in Arusha last week, Dr Nchemba insisted that delays will not be tolerated, stressing that the government expected full compliance with construction schedules as the country prepares to co-host the continental tournament alongside Kenya and Uganda.
He noted that the road network leading to the new stadium and connecting corridors were central to the success of the tournament, as it will carry teams, officials and supporters. Authorities have already fixed May 2027 as the completion deadline for all key infrastructure, with no extensions anticipated. The AFCON is set for June-July next year.
The AFCON-related road programme in Arusha covers a broad mix of strategic upgrades. That includes more than 21 kilometres of high-standard roads linking the stadium to major routes such as the Arusha–Babati highway and the city bypass, alongside the construction of key structures, including a bridge on Essuri Road.
In addition, the wider urban road expansion programme incorporates approximately seven kilometres of a four-lane carriageway and over 60 kilometres of two-lane roads aimed at easing movement across the city.
Further works extend beyond the immediate stadium vicinity, with projects such as the Kilombero–Kisongo road and the Tengeru–Mirerani Road forming part of the efforts to de-congest traffic and improve regional connectivity.
Several shorter but vital access roads around the stadium, including those in the Mateves, Bondeni, Lendita and Essuri, are also being upgraded to ensure smooth movement during the tournament.
With the countdown to AFCON 2027 underway, pressure is mounting on contractors to deliver both in speed and quality. Government officials view the roads as a important test of Arusha’s readiness to host matches and manage increased traffic flows. The other two venues are Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.
Significant public investment has already been committed to the projects, reflecting their importance in positioning Arusha as a modern host city. For contractors on site, the message from the Prime Minister was unequivocal: “Meet the deadline or make way for those who can.”
