Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has invited football legend Didier Drogba to serve as an Ambassador ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The East African country is set to host the AFCON tournament for the first time alongside Kenya and Uganda next year.
Drogba is his nation’s all-time leading scorer and among Africa’s top international goal scorers.
Ivory Coast legend Didier Drogba could play a prominent role in Tanzania’s build-up to AFCON 2027.
An invitation from President Samia Suluhu Hassan was sent, requesting him to act as a global ambassador for the tournament.
The former striker met with President Samia in Dar es Salaam, where he described the invitation as an honour and signalled his willingness to support preparations for the continent’s biggest football event.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, Drogba has been asked to use his profile to promote both the tournament and Tanzania as a travel destination.
Government officials say his role could extend beyond marketing, with plans for him to share expertise in youth development and sports academies, working alongside Tanzania’s Sports Ministry.
Drogba, a two-time African Footballer of the Year, also pointed to increased investment in sport as a positive step, saying it reflects the country’s intent to grow the game.
Fans have largely welcomed the move, seeing his involvement as a boost to the tournament’s visibility.
Tanzania is continuing preparations for AFCON 2027, including building new stadiums, upgrading existing facilities, and encouraging investment in accommodation ahead of the competition.
–SABC–
