Kagera Sugar relegated after 20 years in top flight

KAGERA: KAGERA Sugar’s longstanding journey in the Mainland Premier League has officially come to an end after a decisive 2-0 win by Pamba Jiji over KenGold FC on Tuesday sealed their relegation.

The result leaves Kagera Sugar stuck in 15th place with 22 points. Even with two matches remaining, they can no longer close the gap on 14th-placed Fountain Gate, who sit on 29 points.

With their fate now mathematically confirmed, Kagera Sugar will return to the Championship next season, ending a proud 20-year tenure in Tanzania’s top-tier football.

Pamba Jiji’s victory lifts them to 30 points and into 11th position. They are now level on points with Tanzania Prisons and KMC FC, who occupy 12th and 13th place respectively.

Fountain Gate cling to 14th place just a point behind. Kagera Sugar and KenGold FC, who are at bottom of the table, will both play in the Championship for the 2025/26 season.

Kagera Sugar’s relegation marks the end of an era. Promoted to the Premier League 20 years ago, the club has been a consistent fixture in the top flight, developing local talent and serving as a symbol of pride for the Kagera region.

Their demotion underscores the competitive nature of the league this season, with multiple clubs locked in a tight battle for survival.

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Despite the defeat, KenGold FC Head Coach Omari Kapilima struck a tone of optimism, viewing the remaining two fixtures as an important step in preparing for the club’s future in the Championship.

“These matches offer a valuable learning opportunity, especially for the younger players who will benefit from the high-level competition,” Kapilima said.

“We must stay focused and use the final games to sharpen our skills, build confidence and understand what it takes to succeed at the highest level.”

He urged his players and club officials not to see relegation as a setback, but as a platform for rebuilding.

“This is not the end for us, but rather a chance to reflect, improve and prepare for the future. We must approach the last two games with the same seriousness and discipline we’ve shown throughout the season. Every minute on the pitch is a chance to grow and come back stronger,” Kapilima said.

He also expressed optimism that the club’s management would continue to back the players during the transition stint, emphasising the goal of returning to the Premier League as a stronger and more competitive side.

While Kagera Sugar and KenGold prepare for life in the Championship, Mtibwa Sugar and Mbeya City are set to return to the Premier League next season, having secured promotion.

With just two rounds of fixtures remaining, the battle for survival in the bottom half and the race for the title remain wide open, promising a dramatic finish to the 2024/25 season.