Rally behind Simba, Yanga insist -Minister Ndumbaro
DAR ES SALAAM: MINISTER for Culture, Arts and Sports, Damas Ndumbaro, has called upon Tanzanians to throw their full support behind Simba and Yanga as they brace themselves for the quarterfinal clashes of the CAF Champions League.
“Victory for both teams would bring honour to the nation, Tanzanian football and the participating clubs,” he emphasised.
Dr Ndumbaro delivered these sentiments in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday night during the unveiling ceremony of the new Simba SC network platform christened “Simba Executive Network,” designed to raise funds for the club’s infrastructure development.
He expressed Tanzania’s eagerness to witness both Simba and Yanga progress to the next stage of the competition, the semifinals.
“I wish to see both teams in the semi-finals, it will bring great honour to the country, our football, and our clubs in general,” he explained.
Additionally, he cautioned against the tendency among some local football supporters to support the visitors’ teams when they face off against Tanzanian teams.
He urged them to cease such conduct, citing its contrary effects on the efforts made by President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, in promoting sports during her tenure.
Dr Ndumbaro voiced the government’s dissatisfaction with Tanzanians who criticise local teams, making visiting teams feel welcomed, thereby hindering football progress.
“We will take action against any team acting as a protocol committee to receive visitors at the airport. Visitors will be welcomed by the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) as per protocol, not by teams. Effective immediately, any leader, member, or team engaging in such behaviour will not be tolerated,” he said.
On his part, Simba Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Imani Kajula outlined the vision for the “Simba Executive Network” (SEN), stating that it will be led by individuals who share the club’s strategic goals.
“These are individuals who will initiate projects that will enhance our team’s development and help us achieve our objectives. The primary focus of the SEN is on projects that will leave a lasting impact,” CEO Imani Kajula remarked.
