Dar es Salaam is seeing a surge in hotel development as preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations gather pace, underlining how the tournament is beginning to reshape investment across co-host nations Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.
According to a report by Citizen Tanzania, Tanzania’s commercial capital is emerging as a key investment hub, with new hospitality projects coming up to address a shortage of modern accommodation ahead of the tournament.
Speaking at the launch of the City Crown Hotel in Kariakoo on May 2, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila said AFCON 2027 is already creating demand that existing infrastructure cannot meet.
“With Afcon 2027 approaching, the biggest challenge we face is the shortage of modern hotels capable of accommodating the large number of visitors expected in the country,” he said. “This presents a clear investment opportunity for both local and international investors.”
Tanzania, alongside Uganda and Kenya, is preparing to host thousands of fans, teams and officials, placing cities such as Dar es Salaam at the centre of logistics and accommodation planning.
Authorities say this has triggered rising investor confidence, with new hotels seen as both a short-term solution for AFCON demand and a long-term boost to tourism.
The report notes that international partnerships, particularly with China, are playing a role in accelerating projects, while local and foreign investors are being encouraged to step into the market. Group Six chairman Huang Zai Sheng said government support has been key in enabling new developments.
Economist Haji Semboja warned that Tanzania risks missing out on full economic gains if local investors do not actively participate, especially in mid-range and budget accommodation. Tourism expert Godwill Mathew added that the hospitality gap presents an opportunity to position the country beyond football, as a long-term destination.
For Uganda, the developments in Dar mirror ongoing efforts at home, where the government has stepped in to support the hospitality sector ahead of AFCON 2027.
Financing mechanisms have been extended to investors to upgrade and expand hotel capacity, particularly in key areas such as Hoima and Masindi, which are expected to play a role in hosting teams and visitors.
Like Dar es Salaam, Uganda faces the challenge of ensuring sufficient quality accommodation, with demand projected to spike during the tournament.
The parallel push in both countries highlights a broader regional trend, where AFCON is acting as a catalyst for infrastructure development beyond stadiums.
