Dar es Salaam. There was one thing that stood out clearly when Morocco prepared to host the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025, this was not just a country organising a football tournament, it was a nation presenting itself to Africa and the world.
Morocco did not treat AFCON as a few weeks of football.
It treated it as a national project.
From stadiums and roads to airports, hotels and the attitude of its people, everything spoke one message: “Welcome to Morocco.”
After Morocco, the spotlight is shifting to East Africa. In 2027, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda will jointly host the Africa Cup of Nations. For Tanzania, this is about far more than football.
It is a test of preparation, hospitality and national vision.
Morocco: Beyond football
Morocco understood early on that major tournaments cannot succeed without better infrastructure.
Its stadiums were modern and world-class, but more importantly, they were designed for long-term use beyond the tournament itself.
Roads were well organised and clearly marked.
Rail and public transport systems made it easy for fans to move between cities.
Airports operated efficiently and smoothly. For visitors, Morocco was simple to navigate and easy to enjoy.
This is a critical lesson for Tanzania: infrastructure should not be built only for AFCON, but as a foundation for long-term national development.
Hospitality that made the difference
In Morocco, visitors never felt lost or unwelcome.
From arrival to departure, the country made guests feel at home.
Visa processes were simplified, multiple languages were widely used, and trained volunteers were always available to assist.
Security personnel were present, but friendly and professional. Local citizens embraced the tournament with pride.
For Tanzania, this lesson is vital. AFCON 2027 will bring thousands of visitors from across Africa and beyond.
Hospitality, safety and clear guidance will shape the memories they carry home long after the final match.
Preparation starts today, not tomorrow
Morocco did not wait until the tournament was close.
Planning began years in advance, supported by strong leadership, clear timelines and accountability.
For Tanzania, the time to act is now.
Close coordination with Kenya and Uganda is essential not only for match schedules, but also for security arrangements, fan travel, communication systems and service standards.
The success or failure of AFCON 2027 will be determined by the decisions made today.
The private sector a key driver
Morocco opened its doors to the private sector.
Hotels expanded, transport services improved, and technology was integrated into ticketing, security and broadcasting.
Tanzania has the same opportunity. AFCON 2027 can attract investment, create jobs and stimulate small and medium-sized businesses.
When the tournament ends, the economic benefits should continue.
The legacy after the final whistle
When the final whistle blew in Morocco, the impact did not end.
Stadiums remained active, young players continued to benefit, and tourism growth carried on.
This is the real challenge for Tanzania. AFCON 2027 should not be remembered only for matches and goals.
It should mark the beginning of a new era in sports development, tourism and infrastructure.
