Sports

‘For equity, fairness sake, AFCON had to come to East Africa’ – Tanzania Sports minister

Saturday 30th September, 2023 09:04 AM| By Joel Sang

Tanzania’s Minister of Arts, Culture, and Sports Damas Ndumbaro has explained why it was necessary for East Africa to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in 2027.

The region will be hosting the event for the first time after they secured the rights for the 36th edition.

Ndumbaro also explained why Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania decided to go to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) with a joint bid rather than going as individual countries.

“On behalf of the entire three countries of East Africa, I feel so happy and proud for CAF to award us this bid.

“The difference [between a joint bid] is huge compared to a single bid. Look at the population: 300 million people, and look at the infrastructure: right now we have six stadiums, and we are going to add the number to 10 in the near future.

“We are also going to realign transportation: road, airline, water, and tourism attractions. But above all, the three countries have never hosted an AFCON since its inception in 1957. This was our time, and for the sake of equity and fairness,” Ndumbaro told the press.

Kenya to host AFCON 2027 finals. PHOTO/CAF — Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania to host AFCON 2027 finals. PHOTO/CAF

Presidents’ commitment

Just like his Kenyan counterpart, Ababu Namwamba, the Tanzanian Minister cited the support they got from their countries in regard to the push to have AFCON hosted in East Africa. He also expounded on the advantage a joint effort has compared to a single commitment.

“The commitment of the three presidents is unequivocal, as they have committed to deposit USD 90 million for this AFCON.

“Again, if there is one issue with one country, the other two can rescue the situation. Those factors put our bid above others. This is a win for the seven countries that make up the East African region. It means a lot for the East African Community,” he continued.

The Tanzanian top government official also stated what needs to be done for the countries to be ready in time for AFCON’s 36th edition.

“The first step is to organize a local organizing committee and implement all the requirements. When December 2024 comes, everything will be ready,” he concluded.