AFCON 2027 in Zanzibar: Everything Confirmed So Far

What is AFCON 2027 and Who Hosts It?

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, following the official decision of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in September 2023. It is the biggest football tournament in Africa, featuring 24 national teams competing for the continental title.

💡TIP: For official updates and regulations on AFCON, visit the CAF Online AFCON portal.

Is Zanzibar Confirmed as a Venue for AFCON 2027?

Yes. Zanzibar has been officially confirmed as one of the host venues for AFCON 2027. According to Tanzania’s Minister of Culture, Arts and Sports, matches will be played in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City.

Source: The Citizen – Ndumbaro confirms Dar, Zanzibar as venues

Which Stadiums in Zanzibar Will Be Used?

Amaan Stadium

• Located in Zanzibar City, Amaan Stadium is the most important sports venue on the islands.

• It has a current capacity of around 15,000 spectators.

• Renovation works are in progress to meet CAF standards, including upgrades to lighting, seating and the playing surface.

  Source: Pulse Sports – AFCON 2027 works on Amaan Stadium

Maisara Sports Complex

• In September 2024, Zanzibar President Hussein Mwinyi laid the foundation stone for the Maisara Sports Complex.

• The project is directly linked to preparations for AFCON 2027.

• According to official sources, construction is ongoing with the aim of completion before the tournament.

• The new complex is designed to include a modern football stadium and additional facilities to meet CAF requirements.

  Source: Daily News – Zanzibar breaks ground on stadium for 2027 AFCON

For a visual presentation of the project, see this video:

Maisara Sports Complex – Concept and Construction Video

Why Does AFCON 2027 in Zanzibar Matter?

• Tourism boost: Thousands of football fans are expected to visit Zanzibar, combining world-class football with beaches and cultural heritage.

• Infrastructure legacy: The renovated Amaan Stadium and the new Maisara Sports Complex will remain long after the tournament, strengthening local sports.

• International recognition: Hosting part of AFCON 2027 puts Zanzibar on the global football map for the first time.

Conclusion

AFCON 2027 will be historic for Zanzibar. With Amaan Stadium under renovation and the Maisara Sports Complex under construction, the islands are preparing to host part of Africa’s biggest football tournament.

For fans and visitors alike, AFCON 2027 in Zanzibar will be more than football. It will be a celebration of sport, culture and the unique spirit of the islands.

💡 TIP: If you would like to discover more about local football culture, check out our blog: Football in Zanzibar.

💡 TIP: Planning your trip for AFCON 2027? Don’t miss our Zanzibar Visa Guide with everything you need to know before you travel.