Hamz Stadium
Kampala, Uganda
Benjamin Mkapa Stadium
Dar es Salaam Tanzania
The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, affectionately known as the « Tanzania National Main Stadium, » is the crown jewel of sports in East Africa. Located in Dar es Salaam, this 60,000-capacity arena is the official home of the Tanzania national football team and the legendary rival clubs, Simba SC and Young Africans (Yanga). Renowned for its electric atmosphere during the « Kariakoo Derby, » the stadium is a symbol of Tanzanian national pride and architectural modernity. As a premier venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium continues to be a central hub for elite football, major international concerts, and significant national celebrations.
By Raidarmax - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Capacity
60.000
History of the stadium
Inaugurated in 2007, the stadium was a major project championed by Tanzania’s third president, Benjamin Mkapa, who sought to replace the aging Uhuru Stadium with a world-class facility. Built by the Beijing Construction Engineering Group at a cost of approximately $56 million, it was a landmark collaboration between Tanzania and China. Over the years, it has hosted historic events, including the 2008 Summer Olympics torch relay—its only stop on the African continent—and matches featuring global clubs like Everton and Sevilla. In 2020, the venue was officially renamed in honor of the late President Mkapa.
Architecture and design
The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is a multi-purpose masterpiece featuring an all-seater bowl design with an extendable roof covering the main grandstand. Its pitch uses the high-tech GrassMaster surface, a hybrid of natural grass and synthetic fibers, ensuring durability for high-frequency matches. The stadium is equipped with 114 CCTV cameras, five main entrances, and a massive car park. In 2024, the stadium underwent a significant renovation to replace all 60,000 seats and upgrade the internal facilities to meet the latest CAF and FIFA requirements for international tournaments.
Atmosphere and matchday experience
The atmosphere at « Kwa Mkapa » is unrivaled in the region, particularly during the Kariakoo Derby between Simba and Yanga. The stadium often exceeds its official capacity during these high-stakes matches, with a record attendance of over 70,000. Fans create a vibrant « sea of red and green, » with non-stop drumming, singing, and rhythmic chanting. The stadium’s design amplifies the sound, making it one of the most intimidating environments for visiting African giants in the CAF Champions League.
Location and accessibility
Situated in the Miburani ward of the Temeke District, the stadium is roughly 10 kilometers from Dar es Salaam’s city center. It is conveniently accessible via Taifa Road. For public transport, the Dar Rapid Transit (DART) bus system is the most efficient method, with several lines connecting to the nearby Gerezani and Ubungo hubs. On major matchdays, the area becomes a focal point of the city’s activity, and fans are encouraged to use public transport or local taxis (Bajajis) to navigate the heavy traffic typical of Dar es Salaam.
Origin of the stadium name
Originally known simply as the Tanzania National Main Stadium, it was renamed in July 2020 following the death of former President Benjamin William Mkapa. Mkapa is credited with modernizing Tanzanian sports infrastructure and was the primary visionary behind the stadium’s construction. The name serves as a permanent tribute to his legacy in fostering national unity through sports and his commitment to putting Tanzania on the global athletic map.
How to get to Benjamin Mkapa Stadium
The most reliable way to reach the stadium is via the Dar Rapid Transit (DART) bus system; take a bus to Gerezani and then a quick taxi or Bajaj to the stadium gates. If you are traveling from Ubungo, you can take bus Line 004. For those driving, follow the Kilwa Road or Nelson Mandela Road toward Temeke. Note that parking is extremely limited during « Dar-Derby » matchdays, so arriving 2 to 3 hours early is standard practice for local fans.
Best seats, view and atmosphere
For the most comfortable experience and the best tactical view, the VIP sections and the Main Stand (West) are ideal as they are sheltered by the roof. However, the true « Mkapa experience » is found in the regular seating areas of the North and South stands, where the most fervent supporters of Simba and Yanga congregate. If you want a great panoramic view while avoiding the most crowded sections, the upper tiers of the East Stand offer a fantastic perspective of both the pitch and the Dar es Salaam skyline.
Where to eat and drink near Benjamin Mkapa Stadium
The area surrounding the stadium in Temeke is filled with local food vendors selling Tanzanian staples like Mishkaki (marinated meat skewers), Chipsi Mayai (french fry omelet), and roasted maize. For a more formal meal, the Kariakoo district nearby offers numerous restaurants serving traditional Swahili cuisine. Inside the stadium, fans can find various kiosks selling refreshments and snacks, though bringing bottled water is recommended during the humid coastal afternoons.
Good to know
The Kariakoo Derby is a high-intensity event; security is very strict, with multiple police checkpoints and electronic ticket scanning. For these matches, it is vital to wear the correct team colors to avoid being in the wrong supporter block. The stadium is generally safe for international visitors, but as with any large venue, it is wise to keep valuables secure. In 2026, the stadium is operating under enhanced safety protocols in preparation for the AFCON 2027, ensuring a world-class and secure environment for all spectators.
