By Business Insider Reporter
As the countdown to the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) ticks on, excitement is mounting in Tanzania and across East Africa.
From 2 to 30 August 2025, Tanzania will join its neighbours Kenya and Uganda in co-hosting the prestigious tournament that celebrates Africa’s homegrown football heroes – ending series of postponement of the tournament.
The tournament, often seen as the grassroots counterpart to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), is unique in its focus: it showcases only players active in their country’s domestic leagues.
For Tanzania, this offers not only a sporting spectacle but a moment of national pride and an opportunity to highlight its growing football infrastructure.
Tanzania’s time to shine
For the first time in CHAN history, the championship will be hosted by three nations.
Tanzania’s selection as a co-host was confirmed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in December 2023.
The decision reflects East Africa’s growing importance in African football and serves as a warm-up for the region’s ambitious hosting of the 2027 AFCON.
Stadiums like the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam and New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar are expected to be among the key venues.
Over the past year, the Tanzanian government, through the Ministry of Information, Arts, Culture and Sports, has accelerated stadium renovations and logistics planning to meet international standards.
Minister Palamagamba Kabudi recently assured the public that preparations are on schedule.
“We want to make Tanzania proud. CHAN 2024 is not just about football; it’s about economic opportunity, unity, and showing the world our capacity to host global events,” he told reporters.
Local talent, continental stage
With 19 teams set to compete, including football giants like Senegal, Morocco, Nigeria and DR Congo, the tournament promises high-level competition.
Tanzania, as both host and participant, will be under the spotlight.
The Taifa Stars, coached by Hemed Suleiman Morocco, are aiming for a strong showing.
The team is drawing heavily from clubs like Young Africans SC (Yanga), Simba SC, and Azam FC. Several players have already attracted interest from scouts ahead of the tournament.
“CHAN is a launchpad,” said former Taifa Stars midfielder Athumani Iddi. “Many players move on to top clubs abroad after this exposure. Tanzanian players must seize this chance.”
Beyond the pitch
The benefits of hosting CHAN extend well beyond football. The event is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate local businesses.
In Dar es Salaam and Arusha, hospitality operators are preparing for a surge in demand.
“We are anticipating full occupancy,” said Mariam Mwakalinga, a hotel manager in Dar es Salaam. “We see CHAN as a golden opportunity to market Tanzania as a destination.”
The government is also working with local communities to promote cultural exhibitions and public viewing zones. Traditional dance troupes, culinary festivals, and artisan showcases will add colour to the month-long football fiesta.
Legacy in the making
CHAN 2024 is more than a sporting event; it is a milestone in Tanzania’s journey to becoming a regional sporting hub. From stadium upgrades to capacity building in event management, the tournament is leaving behind lasting infrastructure and skills.
Young fans and aspiring players are especially inspired. “We’ve never had something this big here,” said 17-year-old student and footballer Rehema Juma. “I want to play for Taifa Queens one day. Seeing CHAN come here shows us that dreams are possible.”
Road ahead
As August draws near, one thing is certain: when the whistle blows, Tanzania will be ready to roar.
Fast Facts: CHAN 2024
Dates: 2–30 August 2025
Hosts: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda
Qualified Teams: 19 (including Senegal, Morocco, DR Congo, Nigeria, Tanzania)
Venues in Tanzania: Likely include Benjamin Mkapa Stadium (Dar es Salaam), New Amaan Complex (Zanzibar)
CHAN 2024 represents more than football. It is a celebration of African identity, community strength, and regional partnership.
For Tanzania, it is a golden opportunity to welcome the continent, promote local talent, and build a legacy that lasts long after the final whistle.
