Tanzania Poised for Tourism Transformation with AFCON 2027 Tournament
Tanzania is set to redefine its tourism landscape as it prepares to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027. Beyond the iconic landscapes of the Serengeti and Mount Kilimanjaro, the nation is positioning itself as a premier football and tourism destination.
The upcoming tournament represents a strategic opportunity to elevate Tanzania’s global tourism profile. With ambitious targets under the Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP III), the country has already achieved a remarkable milestone by attracting 5.3 million visitors in 2024, surpassing initial projections.
Infrastructure development is at the forefront of preparations, with plans to upgrade stadiums in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar and construct new facilities in Arusha and Dodoma. The tournament will drive critical improvements in road networks and accommodation infrastructure.
Emerging tourism circuits in coastal and southern regions, including Lindi, Morogoro, and Iringa, offer untapped potential. National parks like Mikumi, Nyerere, and Ruaha present exciting opportunities for diversifying tourist experiences during the event.
Drawing inspiration from previous tournament impacts, such as Egypt’s 2019 AFCON which attracted 2.5 million attendees, Tanzania anticipates significant economic benefits. Strategic initiatives like food festivals, cultural shows, and targeted promotions could maximize tourist engagement.
The tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, and AFCON 2027 could mark the beginning of a transformative era. By addressing key visitor concerns around infrastructure, conservation, and hospitality, Tanzania is positioning itself for sustained tourism growth.
As the countdown to 2027 begins, the nation stands on the brink of a potential tourism revolution, where world-class football meets world-class adventure.
