Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — Tanzania has formally asked China to support its efforts to build major infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), officials said on Friday, February 6, 2026.
Tanzania, which will co-host the continental football championship with Kenya and Uganda, needs modern stadiums, good roads, efficient transport systems and other key facilities to prepare for the event.
Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation James Millya said the government considers AFCON 2027 not just a sports event, but a chance to boost economic growth, improve national infrastructure and strengthen diplomatic links. He made the appeal during celebrations for the Chinese New Year in Dar es Salaam.
“We are seeking China’s continued support to ensure that critical infrastructure for AFCON 2027 is completed on time and meets the required international standards,” Millya said.
China and Tanzania’s Long-Standing Partnership
Officials highlighted the strong partnership between Tanzania and China, which has seen Beijing help fund and build large projects in the country. These include major rail lines such as the Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) line, which China helped construct decades ago and has since been targeted for refurbishment with Chinese involvement.
China’s Chargé d’Affaires to Tanzania, Wang Yong, praised the cooperation between the two nations. He said Chinese nationals working in Tanzania — including teachers, engineers and businesspeople — have played a valuable role in knowledge sharing and bilateral cooperation.
Stadium and Wider Infrastructure Plans
One major piece of infrastructure tied to these discussions is the new football stadium in Arusha being built with Chinese technical support. The Arusha Sports Stadium, named after President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is expected to hold about 30,000 spectators and serve as one of the key venues for AFCON 2027.
The stadium project — constructed by China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG) — reflects deepening China-Tanzania cooperation, while also creating jobs and transferring technical skills to local workers.
A Broader Vision
Deputy Minister Millya described the tournament as an opportunity to attract investment, create jobs and promote tourism in Tanzania and the wider East African region. China’s support is seen as pivotal to achieving these goals.
AFCON 2027 is expected to bring thousands of visitors, boost local businesses and leave lasting
infrastructure legacies long after the matches are played.
