As Tanzania gears up to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar has announced a major TSh 388.8 billion (about Ksh 19 billion) investment that will foresee the construction of a state-of-the-art sports and tourism hub named Afcon City.

The project is located in Fumba on Unguja Island. Afcon City project emerges as a key part of Zanzibar’s strategy to ensure they are fully equipped for Africa’s premier football tournament. Additionally it will boost its tourism and economic sectors.

Design and Facilities

Afcon City is designed to offer world-class facilities for teams, officials, and fans from across the continent and beyond. The complex will have modern training grounds, accommodation, and other essential infrastructure. These facilities will enhance the visitor experience.

Furthermore, the project is intended to be a major tourist attraction. It will solidify Zanzibar’s reputation as a leading international tourist destination.

Current Status of the Project

Tanzania has made great progress in bringing the vision of Afcon City to life. Riziki Pembe Juma who is Zanzibar’s Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, confirmed that construction is progressing well. Currently, the completion status stands at 35 per cent.

The current work includes erecting the main structural framework. Also, it entails installing steel reinforcements and building walls.

“The completion level reflects how seriously the government is preparing to welcome visitors during AFCON 2027,” Juma said, according to the Citizen.

Visiting teams that will be playing in Zanzibar will have access to top-tier training facilities at the New Amaan Complex and the Suluhu Academy.

Minister Juma also urged residents and entrepreneurs to prepare for the business opportunities the project will generate. He noted that the development is expected to stimulate economic growth, create employment, and attract further investment. This promises a lasting legacy for Zanzibar’s economy long after the tournament concludes.

Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda to Co-host AFCON 2027

Tanzania, alongside Kenya and Uganda, will host the AFCON 2027. Matches will be held in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar. This will mark a significant milestone for football and economic development in the region.

The scale of investment in Afcon City and the pace of construction places Tanzania a step ahead of Kenya and Uganda in terms of infrastructure, training facilities, and fan experience. Tanzania is also constructing the Dr Samia Suluhu Stadium in preparation for the tournament.

Significance of the Project

The project highlights Tanzania’s leadership in regional football development and sports tourism. Minister Juma emphasised the long-term vision behind the project and expressed optimism about the impact it would have generally on the local economy and tourism sector.

The completion level reflects how seriously the government is preparing to welcome visitors during AFCON 2027,” he said, highlighting the government’s commitment to leaving a lasting legacy.

Zanzibar’s Afcon City Project Factsheet

Official Name: Afcon City (Zanzibar Sports City)

Location: Fumba, Zanzibar (Unguja Island)

Total Budget: Approximately $445 million (TSh 388.8 billion)

Prime Contractor: Orkun Group

Architect: AFL Architects.

Phase I ($260M)

Key Infrastructure & Features

• Main Stadium: A 36,500-seat international football stadium.
• Innovation: Features StadiArena technology, which uses “StadiDoor” systems to convert a stadium stand into a fully enclosed indoor arena for concerts and conferences.
• Training Grounds: Two 15,000-seat training pitches.
• Hospitality: A 150-key 5-star luxury hotel.
• Medical: A 100-bed (some reports state 40-bed) specialized sports hospital to serve athletes and medical tourists.

Phase 2: Expansion & Lifestyle ($185M)

• Additional Hotel: A 150-key 4-star hotel (projected for 2029).
• Indoor Arena: A 5,000-seat multipurpose indoor arena.
• Commercial: A mixed-use complex including a business center and 40 retail shops.
• Logistics: A small passenger port to facilitate transport for fans and tourists.

Project Team

Globespan Infrastructure: The prime contract holder and lead developer.

Orkun Group (Orkun Group Zanzibar Ltd): The main construction company leading the physical execution of the project.

Reform Sports: A specialized firm involved in the sports infrastructure (stadium surfaces and pitches).

AFL Architects: The lead architectural firm based in the UK (Manchester).

StadiArena (UK): The technology provider for the “StadiDoor” system, which allows the stadium to convert a seating stand into an enclosed indoor arena.

Zanzibar Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture, and Sport: The primary commissioning government body.

ZIPA (Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority): The agency facilitating the regulatory environment and investment incentives for the project.

FIFA / CAF: Governing bodies that conduct periodic inspections to ensure the stadium meets international “Category 4” standards for AFCON 2027.