THE Confederation of African Football (CAF) has temporarily closed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam due to the deteriorating condition of the pitch.

In a statement released today March 12, 2025, Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) Communication Officer Cliford Ndimbo said CAF has ordered immediate improvements to meet required standards and prevent a long-term ban on the venue.

The statement also highlighted that CAF has instructed that the pitch be improved urgently to meet the required standards and prevent a prolonged closure of the stadium.

The CAF Confederation Cup (CAF CC) quarter-final match between Simba and Egypt’s Al Masry is scheduled to be played at the stadium on April 9, 2025.

Furthermore, to avoid disruptions, the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) has been directed to submit the name of an alternative stadium for Simba by March 14, 2025.

CAF will conduct an inspection of Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on March 20, 2025, to assess the improvements made before deciding whether to allow its use or extend the closure.

Apart from these CAF CL matches, Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is also scheduled to host the CHAN Finals in August 2025.