The Zanzibar Revolutionary Government (SMZ) has temporarily closed New Amaan Complex Stadium for approximately two months to remove the existing grass and install a new playing surface as part of preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to Zanzibar Sports Department Commissioner Ameir Moh’d Makame, the process will involve removing the existing grass, planting new grass, allowing it to grow and establishing the first stages of cutting. The entire project is expected to be completed within approximately two months.
The move is part of efforts to ensure that New Amaan Complex meets the standards required by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ahead of stadium inspections and testing expected to begin in January 2027.
Yanga may be forced to play their CAF Champions League preliminary-round matches this season at Azam Complex, which is currently the only stadium that meets the requirements for hosting preliminary and first-round CAF competition matches.
The Zanzibar Football Federation (ZFF) has also requested an inspection of Gombani Stadium in Pemba. If the venue is approved by CAF, Wananchi could be required to play their matches there.
The closure of New Amaan Complex, together with Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, is clearly a setback for teams from both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar that will participate in the CAF Champions League (CAFCL) and CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC), with the preliminary-round matches expected to begin in early September.
