Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania: Benjamin Mkapa Stadium has been closed for renovation. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, addressed rumours regarding the closure of Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. Contrary to claims made by some media outlets, Msigwa confirmed that there has been no announcement for the stadium’s closure for six months.
During a meeting with officials from the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and representatives from major football clubs Yanga and Simba, discussions centered around the condition of the stadium following a series of international and NBC Premier League matches. Clubs had expressed the need to use the stadium for their league matches while also assessing the damage done to the playing surface.
“In light of our discussions,” Msigwa stated, “we have agreed that for the time being, Yanga and Simba must seek alternative venues for their league matches. Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will remain designated for International matches, National Team events, and Derby matches until substantial renovations can be carried out on the pitch.”
Msigwa emphasized that the recent $31 billion allocated for renovations primarily covered enhancements to the stadium’s infrastructure. “These renovations have included significant improvements such as upgrading the building structure, installing new electrical and lighting systems, modernized water and toilet facilities, a new running track, the installation of all 62,000 seats, air conditioning, advanced sound systems, a large scoreboard, technical benches, goals, and overall aesthetic improvements including painting.”
He took to social media to invite anyone who has visited the stadium to comment on the renovations undertaken, challenging anyone to identify what had not been completed as promised.
This commitment to maintaining high standards for the stadium reflects the government’s dedication to providing a quality venue for sports and entertainment in Tanzania, while ensuring that proper assessments and renovations are conducted to sustain the integrity of the playing surface.
As the dialogue between the Ministry, TFF, and club representatives continues, the focus remains on enhancing the overall experience for fans and players alike, with assurances that the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will continue to serve as a premier venue for significant matches in the future.
