Following the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, a senior FIFA official praised Moroccan fans for their loyalty and passion. During the semifinal match between Morocco and France, nearly 40% of the spectators were Moroccans, showcasing the importance of fan support in hosting major tournaments.
This strong support likely influenced FIFA’s decision to award Morocco co-hosting rights for the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, marking the first time three countries will jointly host the event. Alongside infrastructure like stadiums and hotels, fan engagement is crucial in determining a nation’s hosting capabilities.
Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda are preparing to co-host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025. This is the first time the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has awarded joint hosting rights for this tournament, which features national teams comprised solely of players competing within Africa.
Declining Football Enthusiasm
In Kenya and Uganda, football enthusiasm has waned over the years, particularly due to the weakening of traditional rival teams like Express and SC Villa in Uganda and AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia in Kenya.
In contrast, the rivalry between Simba and Yanga in Tanzania has kept these clubs’ fan bases alive and vibrant. However, these fans are often more dedicated to their clubs than to football in general. As a result, significant efforts are needed to fill stadiums even for national team matches. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has, on several occasions, bought tickets for general seating to encourage attendance.
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For CHAN 2025, this same level of promotion and effort will be required to ensure a strong turnout, especially as the tournament features local players rather than international stars like Mohamed Salah or Ashraf Hakimi.
Preparing for CHAN 2025
With the tournament just around the corner, there is little visible excitement or preparation to rally the nation. The absence of banners, advertisements, and commercial partnerships underscores a missed opportunity to utilize the tournament for economic, social, and commercial benefits.
While poor preparation for CHAN 2025 might not result in CAF withdrawing AFCON 2027 hosting rights, it could tarnish Tanzania’s image and affect future hosting opportunities.
The organizing committee must act quickly to engage the public and promote CHAN 2025. Leveraging the passionate fan bases of Simba and Yanga and figures like Ali Kamwe and Ahmed Ally could help rally support for the national team, Taifa Stars. Marketing strategies should also target businesses to capitalize on the tournament’s potential.
Media outlets should take the lead in building patriotism around CHAN 2025. Discussions on ticket prices, expected star players, team quality, and tournament benefits can generate excitement.
This tournament is a golden opportunity for Tanzania to prove itself capable of hosting major events like AFCON 2027 and beyond. If successful, it could open doors to hosting other prestigious African tournaments, such as the Women’s AFCON or the CAF Super Cup.
Super Cup matches, often held in countries with passionate fans, can draw large crowds even when local teams are not participating. Tanzania must cultivate this level of enthusiasm for CHAN 2025 and AFCON 2027 to leave a lasting impression on the global football stage.
Anonymous
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