PM pushes for timely completion of all training venues before the AFCON kicks off

DAR ES SALAAM: PRIME Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has directed contractors and project managers to accelerate the construction of training grounds that will be used during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), saying the facilities must be completed on time and meet standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Dr Nchemba said construction work should be intensified, including extending working hours where necessary, to ensure Tanzania completes the facilities ahead of CAF inspections of the country’s preparations for the continental tournament.

The Prime Minister issued the directive today, August 21, 2026, after inspecting construction progress at Farasi and Leaders Club training grounds in Dar es Salaam. The two facilities are among the training venues expected to support AFCON 2027, which will be jointly hosted by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

He said Tanzania should not wait until the final stages of preparations to complete critical infrastructure, noting that CAF needs to establish in advance that the required facilities are ready.

“Let us work day and night and complete the remaining percentage. Those responsible for overseeing the tournament cannot simply take our word that we are ready; they want to see for themselves that we are ready while there is still sufficient time,” Dr Nchemba said.

The Prime Minister said AFCON 2027 should not be viewed solely as a sporting event, but also as a major economic opportunity that Tanzania must prepare to exploit.

“This is not just about sport; there is an economy within it,” he said, stressing that once infrastructure development is completed, the country should shift its focus towards strategic preparations to maximise the economic opportunities associated with the tournament.

During the inspection, Dr Nchemba also directed authorities to address complaints raised by workers involved in the construction of the training facilities, particularly concerns relating to employment contracts, overtime payments and other employment entitlements.

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He instructed the responsible ministry, project supervisors and other stakeholders to ensure that workers receive their employment contracts within one week.

He further directed the relevant authorities to verify payroll calculations, overtime payments and other entitlements in accordance with agreements reached with the workers.

The directives come as Tanzania steps up preparations for AFCON 2027, which will be jointly hosted by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda, placing greater emphasis on timely completion and compliance of tournament-related infrastructure with CAF requirements.