WHAT WILL TANZANIA BE LEFT WITH AFTER THE FINAL WHISTLE OF AFCON 2027?



How is TAWA Preparing for the Legacy?

By Beatus Maganja

Have you ever wondered what a host nation is left with after a major tournament like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) comes to an end? Once the final whistle is blown, fans return home, and stadiums fall silent, what remains for the people? If the answer is infrastructure, jobs, business opportunities, and long-term development, then Tanzania's preparations for AFCON 2027 are about far more than football itself.

One clear example is the implementation of tourism infrastructure projects in protected areas managed by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA), including Makuyuni Wildlife Park in Arusha, Wami-Mbiki Wildlife Management Area in the Coast and Morogoro regions, and Pande Game Reserve in Dar es Salaam.

On July 23, 2026, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Hassan Abbasi, inspected the progress of several projects, including the construction of an Olympic-standard swimming pool, football grounds, volleyball courts, and tennis courts. These projects are being financed through the Tourism Development Levy (TDL) Fund.

At first glance, one might see only sports facilities under construction. However, from a development perspective, these projects represent strategic investments that connect tourism, sports, business, public health, and economic growth. Although they are being developed to support AFCON 2027, their true value will continue to benefit the country long after the tournament ends.

AFCON 2027 is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across Africa and beyond. These visitors will not only come to watch football but will also seek opportunities to explore Tanzania's unique tourist attractions. Pande Game Reserve, located within Dar es Salaam, is well positioned to offer visitors a unique combination of sports, recreation, and wildlife tourism.

The benefits of these investments will extend well beyond international visitors. Residents of Dar es Salaam will enjoy improved sports and recreational facilities, providing spaces for exercise, youth talent development, sporting competitions, and healthier lifestyles. In this way, the projects directly improve the quality of life for local communities.

Economically, the expected increase in visitors will create new opportunities across multiple sectors. Hotels, guest houses, restaurants, transport providers, tour operators, and small businesses will all benefit from higher demand for their services. Every visitor attending AFCON has the potential to contribute to local incomes and stimulate broader economic growth.

The projects will also generate both direct and indirect employment opportunities. During construction, they provide jobs for engineers, contractors, and skilled workers. Once completed, they will require swimming pool attendants, sports coaches, maintenance staff, tour guides, hospitality workers, and many other professionals. This demonstrates that infrastructure investment is not simply about constructing buildings—it is about creating sustainable economic opportunities for Tanzanians.

Furthermore, AFCON 2027 offers Tanzania a valuable platform to promote itself internationally. Millions of viewers following the tournament through television broadcasts and digital platforms will see Tanzania as a country capable of hosting world-class sporting events, blessed with exceptional tourism attractions and an attractive investment environment. Such exposure has the potential to increase tourist arrivals and attract investors long after the competition concludes.

That is why Dr. Hassan Abbasi emphasized the importance of ensuring that these projects are completed on time and meet the highest quality standards. Investments of this nature are intended to serve the nation for decades, supporting sports, tourism, education, employment, and sustainable economic development for future generations.

AFCON 2027 should therefore be viewed not merely as a football tournament, but as a unique opportunity to accelerate Tanzania's long-term national development.

Congratulations to the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism for recognizing and making the most of this rare and valuable opportunity.

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