)
After the incident, CAF president Patrice Motsepe emphasized, ‘there is zero tolerance for incidents that compromise the safety and well-being of fans’.
A fatal stampede that occurred at Tanzania's Benjamin Mkapa Stadium during the CAF Confederation Cup final on Sunday has sent shockwaves across East Africa, particularly as the region awaits a crucial decision regarding the hosting of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The tragic incident claimed two lives, with 10 other people reportedly suffering critical injuries, and 30 others had minor injuries.
According to reports in Tanzanian media, a heavy downpour before the game between Young Africans and USM Algers in Dar-es-Salaam, saw impatient fans try to gain entry into the stadium without tickets, leading to ugly scenes at the match venue
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for improved safety measures and preparedness at stadiums, putting the East African bid, titled 'Pamoja,' under scrutiny.
The joint bid from East African neighbors Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, along with submissions from Algeria, Egypt, Botswana and Senegal have been presented to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to host the 2027 AFCON.
The stampede at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium has raised concerns about the region's preparedness and ability to ensure the safety of spectators.
A similar incident claimed eight lives with 38 suffering injuries ahead of the 2021 AFCON quarter-final involving hosts Cameroon and Comoros.
After the incident, CAF president Patrice Motsepe emphasized, ‘there is zero tolerance for incidents that compromise the safety and well-being of fans’.
Motsepe also stressed that; “We need to talk to ensure that steps are taken to ensure that what happened yesterday never happens again.”
The upcoming decision expected in September 2023, on the host nation for the 2027 AFCON will undoubtedly take into account the incident in Tanzania and its implications for stadium safety.
CAF will carefully assess the capabilities of each bidding country to provide secure environments for spectators, teams, and officials during the tournament when it starts its inspection in July .
The East African bid, 'Pamoja,' must now demonstrate its commitment to implementing robust safety measures and proactive crowd control strategies.
The bid includes several stadiums, among them the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, which tragically became the site of the recent stampede.
Tanzania, also included the CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza, Chamazi Complex (home to Azam FC), with various venues in Dodoma, Arusha, and Zanzibar are being considered for upgrades or investments to meet the required standards.
Kenya has proposed the iconic 60,000-seater Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), the 30,000-seater Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, and the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret as potential venues.
Uganda has put forward the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, as a potential venue, although details about other proposed venues and training grounds are yet to be confirmed.
East Africa's bid to host the 2027 AFCON can still be a catalyst for positive change.
By prioritizing safety and incorporating lessons learned from past incidents, the region has an opportunity to set new standards for stadium security and enhance the overall fan experience.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)