FROM THE ARUSHA NEWS REPORTER IN DODOMA
The Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda, told Parliament that construction of the new Arusha stadium—earmarked for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)—has reached 77 per cent completion.
Presenting his ministry’s 2026/27 budget estimates in the National Assembly, his first since being appointed minister and elected Arusha Member of Parliament (MP), Makonda said the government was making steady progress the construction and rehabilitation of stadiums.
Makonda noted that the Arusha stadium will be one of the key venues for the tournament, adding that other major facilities are also nearing completion.
The refurbishment of the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam is now about 95 per cent complete while several training grounds have already been finalised.
The minister told lawmakers that the investments are not only aimed at hosting AFCON 2027 but will also leave a lasting legacy in sports development, tourism growth and economic expansion.
He further revealed that in the current financial year, the ministry has already received Sh352.94 billion, equivalent to 67.9 per cent of its approved budget, reflecting steady financing of priority projects.
However, parliamentary committees cautioned that delays in supporting infrastructure—particularly road access and surrounding facilities in Arusha—could affect readiness if not addressed in time.
The African Cup of Nations will kick off on June 19, 2027, likely in Dar es Salaam and the final is set for July 17, 2027, likely in Nairobi.
