Zanzibar. President Hussein Ali Mwinyi has inspected ongoing works at the Zanzibar Sports City project in Fumba.
The President toured the expansive construction site on November 18, accompanied by the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Riziki Pemba Juma, and Deputy Minister Ali Abdulgullam Hussein.
Speaking during the visit, Dr Mwinyi said the government was committed to ensure the flagship facility is completed on time and in line with international standards as the country gears up to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
He assured the Ministry and ORKUN Group, the project contractor, that the government has opened all necessary channels to facilitate smooth implementation.
He urged them to maintain speed, efficiency and adherence to global benchmarks.
He called on both parties to address challenges promptly and avoid submitting them late, noting that timely communication would enable the Government to intervene and provide swift solutions whenever required.
The Sports City project is among the high-profile developments being undertaken by the Zanzibar Government to modernise sports infrastructure and boost the growth of the sector.
Officials say the facility is expected to play a vital role in the country’s preparations for AFCON 2027, which Tanzania will host jointly with Kenya and Uganda.
The first phase of the project comprises the construction of a 36,500-seat international football stadium, two training grounds each capable of accommodating 15,000 spectators, and a multi-purpose arena to be used for national ceremonies and other events. The new stadium is intended to meet international standards required for major continental and global competitions.
President Mwinyi’s visit comes at a time when the government is intensifying efforts to ensure that all AFCON-related projects across the Isles progress as planned.
Authorities say the Sports City will not only support the hosting of the tournament but will also provide long-term benefits, including promoting sports tourism and creating opportunities for youth engagement and talent development.
The project is expected to be completed by December 2026.
