Afcon puts Arusha tourism investment in spotlight

The Africa Cup of Nations could give Arusha’s tourism sector a major lift, but only if visitors do more than attend football matches, parliamentary committee chairman Timothy Mnzava said.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Lands, Natural Resources and Tourism is urging the government to refine the investment climate and draw greater participation from private investors. It said the expected increase in visitors would create opportunities across accommodation, entertainment, transport and tourist attractions.

Mnzava made the remarks on Sunday, September 6, 2026, after the committee visited Lake Duluti Forest Reserve in Arumeru District. The delegation inspected conservation efforts, tourism activities and infrastructure projects at the reserve.

The committee said the tournament should be used to encourage investment that allows visitors to explore Arusha’s attractions, rather than simply watch matches. Mnzava also said the committee was impressed by contributions from the private sector. The supplied report ends while describing those contributions.