DEPUTY Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Hamis Mwinjuma, has issued a firm directive to the contractor overseeing renovations at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, demanding that all key areas of the facility be completed by May 10, 2025.

The directive comes as Tanzania prepares to host the CAF Confederation Cup final where Simba SC will face Moroccan side RS Berkane.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the stadium on Tuesday, Mwinjuma (pictured) emphasized the urgency of completing critical renovations, particularly the playing surface (pitch), which must meet top standards in time for the return leg of the final on May 25. 

The first leg will be held in Morocco on May 17.

“This is a matter of national pride,” said Mwinjuma. “We want Tanzanians to be proud and to witness a historic moment. The trophy is coming home, and this stadium must be ready to receive it.”

The deputy minister noted that the government, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has issued specific instructions to ensure the stadium meets international standards. 

He highlighted the importance of creating a memorable experience for fans, especially considering that the last time Tanzania hosted a CAF final was in 2023 when Young Africans reached the final, and previously in 1993 when Simba made it that far.

Mwinjuma stated that the pitch, which suffered visible deterioration following the quarterfinal match between Simba and Al Masry of Egypt, has been prioritized for immediate attention.

“Over 63,000 spectators are expected to witness this historic event,” he said. “We cannot afford to compromise on the quality of the pitch or any part of the stadium. The playing surface must be flawless, and the atmosphere must reflect the magnitude of the occasion.”

The deputy minister further directed the contractor to expedite other essential infrastructure improvements. These include completing the referee and technical benches by installing tiles, placing temporary seats in uncovered spectator sections, and ensuring that all finishing touches are finalized by Friday, May 2.

“We are not leaving anything to chance. This is not just a football match, it is a continental final that will be broadcast across Africa and beyond. The image of our country is at stake, and we must deliver,” he added.

During his visit, Mwinjuma walked through the stadium facilities, engaged with engineers, and closely examined the areas under construction. 

He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting local football and ensuring that international events hosted in Tanzania meet the highest standards.

Simba’s qualification to the final has sparked nationwide excitement, and expectations are high that the club could make history by lifting the CAF Confederation Cup on home soil. 

The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, with its capacity of over 60,000, is expected to be filled to the brim, creating an electrifying atmosphere for the decisive second leg.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is expected to dispatch inspection teams in the coming weeks to assess the venue’s readiness. 

The stadium’s preparedness will play a crucial role in determining the smooth conduct of the final and Tanzania’s future potential as a host for major international football events.

As preparations intensify, all eyes are now on the contractor to meet the May 10 deadline and ensure the stadium is match-ready for one of the most anticipated fixtures in Tanzanian football history.

With national pride and international reputation on the line, the successful completion of the renovations will not only enhance Tanzania’s image on the continental football stage but also reaffirm the country’s ability to host world-class sporting events.