TFF: Karume commercial complex awaits ministry nod

A mega-project aimed at transforming Karume Stadium – home of Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) into a modern commercial complex awaits approval on change of land use from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, The Guardian on Sunday has been informed.

The project would involve establishment of a shopping mall at a traditional sporting area which has existed for more than 50 years.

TFF secretary general Angetile Osiah told this paper this week that preparations for the project were on track.

“This area was designated solely for sports activities, therefore laws governing lands require TFF to get approval for change of land use if it deems to do so or having additional activities to the original ones stipulated,” he said.

The TFF head of secretariat noted that while waiting for approval the project financier remains the National Social Security Fund (NSSF).

He could not give further details but he affirmed that should this project be implemented, the shopping mall would be generating millions of shillings on a regular basis, diversifying the federation’s means of income.

The project was for the first time publicly mentioned in 2008 with plans to erect commercial facilities while the area’s sporting status would be maintained as TFF offices. The soccer stadium by the inside would remain in place though in a different, modernized shape.