Karia: More talent centres on way

TANZANIA: TANZANIA Football Federation (TFF) President Wallace Karia (pictured) says the federation is expanding its youth development programme, with new talent centres planned in Kahama and Zanzibar as part of efforts to develop players for future national teams.

Karia said more than 90 per cent of players representing Tanzania’s national teams had come through youth football structures, highlighting the importance of identifying and developing young talent.

“More than 90 per cent of our players have come through youth teams. That tells you our future depends on how well we identify and develop young footballers,” Karia said.

The federation’s Talent Identification (TID) and Talent Development Scheme (TDS) programmes are at the centre of the development plans, with the Tanga Centre now recognised as a FIFA Talent Academy.

Karia said the centre h a s be – come an important part of identifying and developing young players, with some gaining opportunities to join clubs outside Tanzania through the federation’s relationship with FIFA.

According to Karia, the centre serves over 100 children below the age of 17, both boys and girls.

“We identify talent and develop it. Through our strong relationship with FIFA, some of these young players have secured opportunities with clubs outside Tanzania. That pathway is becoming stronger every year,” he said.

TFF has so far taken the programme to 16 regions across the country, with plans to expand its reach further. Former national team players are also involved in developing young footballers, with Karia saying experienced players are now contributing as coaches and mentors.

“Our former players are now giving back as coaches. Experienced professionals like former Azam FC captain and defender Aggrey Morris are helping to train and mentor young footballers,” he said.

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Alongside youth development, TFF is also working on improving football infrastructure. Karia said the Kigamboni Centre remains the training base for national teams, while discussions are ongoing over the establishment of another football centre in Kahama.

“We have held productive discussions with the Kahama Municipal Council regarding land around the Buzwagi mining area. Once the Memorandum of Understanding is finalised, we will announce the project officially,” he said.

Karia also confirmed that FIFA has approved the establishment of another TDS centre in Zanzibar.

He added that Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Paul Makonda has pledged support for additional youth development centres in Arusha, Mbeya and the Southern Zone.