SPORT AND RECREATION
Overview
Tanzania's sport and recreation sector is an emerging component of the country's broader services, tourism and creative economy. Football remains the dominant sport, supported by strong public participation, established domestic leagues and growing international competitions. The sector is increasingly creating opportunities beyond professional sport, including sports infrastructure, recreation and leisure facilities, training academies, fitness and wellness, sports media, merchandising, event management and sports tourism.
Key Facts
Football – The dominant sport in Tanzania, supported by strong domestic participation, vibrant leagues and significant fan engagement.
Major Sports Facilities – Tanzania has a growing network of sports facilities, including Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Amani Stadium in Zanzibar, Gombani Stadium in Pemba and Chamazi Stadium.
Golf – An established recreational and tourism activity, with approximately six golf courses located in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Morogoro and Zanzibar.
AFCON 2027 – Tanzania will co-host the Africa Cup of Nations together with Kenya and Uganda, creating opportunities for investment in sports infrastructure, hospitality, transportation, event management and related services.
Key AFCON Facilities – Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Fumba Stadium in Zanzibar and the new Arusha Stadium in Arusha.
Arusha Stadium – A major sports facility being developed to strengthen Tanzania's capacity to host international sporting events; reported to have reached 74% completion in January 2026.
TZS 179.8 billion – Government allocation in FY 2025/26 for the construction and renovation of football stadiums in preparation for AFCON 2027.
Investment Opportunities
1. Sports and Recreation Infrastructure
Investment opportunities exist in stadiums, sports complexes, recreational parks, swimming pools, gyms, golf courses, leisure centres and multipurpose recreation facilities.
2. Sports Training and Academies
Opportunities include football academies, youth development centres, professional training facilities, coaching programmes and sports education.
3. Recreation and Leisure
Investors can develop amusement parks, family recreation centres, outdoor recreation facilities, fitness clubs, wellness centres and other leisure destinations.
4. Sports and Recreation Tourism
Opportunities exist in sports tourism, golf tourism, adventure recreation, sporting destinations and travel packages linked to major sporting and recreational activities.
5. Sports Events and Entertainment
Investment opportunities include tournament management, event organization, venue management, ticketing, sports marketing, sponsorship and sports-related entertainment.
6. Fitness and Wellness
Opportunities include fitness centres, gyms, wellness facilities, sports rehabilitation, personal training and other health and recreation services.
7. Sports Media, Merchandise and Equipment
Investors can participate in sports broadcasting, digital media, content production, sportswear, sporting equipment, footwear, accessories and merchandise.
8. Hospitality and Supporting Services
The growth of sports and recreational activities creates opportunities in hotels, restaurants, transportation, accommodation and other services supporting athletes, tourists, families and event participants.