MWE Correspondent
Tanzania has formally invited Russian investors to partner with the country’s private sector in tapping into emerging opportunities linked to preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as the government accelerates efforts to turn the continental tournament into a catalyst for broad economic transformation.
The appeal was made on May 15, 2026, in Arusha during the opening of the Tanzania–Russia Business and Investment Forum by the Deputy Minister in the President’s Office for Planning and Investment, Dr. Pius Chaya.
Speaking at the high-level forum, Dr. Chaya emphasized that the upcoming AFCON 2027—set to be jointly hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda—presents a rare and large-scale opportunity for investment across multiple sectors, including sports infrastructure, hospitality, transport, ICT, aviation, entertainment, and tourism-related services.
He said the government is deliberately positioning the tournament not only as a sporting milestone but also as a development platform capable of accelerating Tanzania’s long-term economic transformation agenda.
According to Dr. Chaya, preparations for the continental event will require extensive investment in modern stadiums, upgraded transport systems, expanded accommodation facilities, and improved urban infrastructure to meet international standards. He noted that these developments will create wide-ranging opportunities for both local and foreign investors.
The Deputy Minister urged Russian investors to work closely with Tanzania’s private sector in implementing AFCON-related projects, stressing that such partnerships would enhance capital flow, technology transfer, and technical expertise in key development areas.
He added that Tanzania has continued to implement broad economic reforms aimed at improving the investment climate, simplifying regulatory processes, and strengthening public-private partnership frameworks to attract sustainable foreign direct investment.
Dr. Chaya further highlighted that the government’s approach to AFCON 2027 is rooted in long-term planning, ensuring that investments made ahead of the tournament generate lasting benefits for citizens well beyond the final whistle of the competition.
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He said the hospitality sector is expected to experience significant growth as the country prepares to host thousands of visitors, including teams, officials, media personnel, and football fans from across Africa and beyond. This, he noted, will create strong demand for hotels, restaurants, tourism services, and related businesses.
Transport and logistics infrastructure were also identified as key priority areas, with plans to improve road networks, enhance airport capacity, and strengthen connectivity between host cities. Officials believe these upgrades will not only support AFCON 2027 but also improve regional trade and mobility in the long term.
In addition, Dr. Chaya pointed to the growing importance of ICT systems in modern event management, including ticketing platforms, security systems, broadcasting infrastructure, and digital fan engagement tools. He said Tanzania is seeking partners who can support innovation in these areas.
Russian business representatives attending the forum reportedly expressed interest in exploring cooperation opportunities, particularly in construction, engineering, and large-scale infrastructure projects linked to AFCON preparations.
The forum in Arusha brought together government officials, private sector leaders, and international investors to explore new areas of economic cooperation between Tanzania and Russia, with a strong focus on translating diplomatic engagement into practical investment outcomes.
As Tanzania intensifies preparations for AFCON 2027, officials say the country is determined to leverage the tournament as a strategic gateway for investment, job creation, and infrastructure development.
For policymakers, the message from Arusha was clear: AFCON 2027 is more than a sporting event—it is a national opportunity to reshape economic growth and deepen international partnerships.
