Tanzania in CHAN 2025 with Massive Sports Infrastructure Boost

The tournament, now scheduled to kick off on August 2, 2025, marks a significant milestone for Tanzania’s sporting ambitions and infrastructure advancement.

Preparations have reached an advanced stage with nearly all critical venues and facilities fully renovated or newly built to meet the stringent requirements set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The centerpiece is the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, which will host the opening match and a majority of Tanzania’s fixtures. This stadium has undergone comprehensive upgrades including an improved pitch drainage system and compliance with international standards for seating, lighting, and security.

Supporting venues also include the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar along with three well-equipped training grounds — the Law School grounds, Major General Isamuhyo Stadium, and the Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Club. These training sites have been refreshed to offer modern pitches and facilities, critical for the quality of play and team preparation during the tournament.

Government officials, including Permanent Secretary Dr. Jim Yonazi and Ministry spokesperson Gerson Msigwa, have publicly declared Tanzania’s readiness to host CHAN. Inspections carried out by both CAF delegates and the Tanzanian government confirm that the infrastructure and logistical arrangements are in place, extending beyond stadiums to medical readiness, accommodation, and transport logistics. This holistic approach ensures a seamless experience for teams, officials, and fans.

Beyond the immediate sporting spectacle, CHAN 2025 is a catalyst for economic and social development. The government recognizes the tournament as an opportunity to boost tourism, create jobs, and promote Tanzania’s profile on the international stage. Local football clubs such as Simba, Yanga, and Azam are expected to benefit from increased attention and investment, while Tanzanian players aim to showcase their talent to scouts and clubs across Africa and beyond.

Home-based national team coach Hemed ‘Morocco’ Suleiman expresses high hopes for Tanzania’s performance, aiming to surpass previous CHAN outings where Tanzania has never progressed beyond the group stage. The current squad, selected from the Tanzanian Premier League, reflects elevated standards in player quality and tactical organization, driven by stronger club competition and improved youth development.

Fans in Dar es Salaam and across the country have shown tremendous enthusiasm, with calls for unity and patriotic support to create a vibrant football festival atmosphere. The event also carries a message of regional cooperation and African football solidarity, as neighboring countries jointly host one of the continent’s premier football competitions for the first time.

Finally, CHAN 2025 aligns with Tanzania’s longer-term strategic vision of leveraging football and sport for sustainable development. Parallel community initiatives linked to the tournament promote environmental awareness, renewable energy use in stadiums, and skills training for youth, embedding lasting social benefits beyond the final whistle.