TANZANIA: FOOTBALL fraternity mourn the passing of former sponsor and chairman of Young Africans, Yusuf Manji who passed away last Sunday in the United States where he was undergoing treatment.
They said he left behind a legacy cherished by many sports enthusiasts both locally and internationally.
The president of Young Africans Hersi Said, expressed deep sorrow over Manji’s death, describing it as a profound loss for the football fraternity.
“He was a visionary leader who dedicated himself to laying a strong foundation for our team. His commitment to sports development in our country was unparalleled,” Hersi said in a statement posted on Yanga’s verified Instagram page.
During his tenure, Manji served the club in various roles, contributing significantly to its stability and success. “We will remember him for his unwavering passion for our club and his transformative impact, including the renovation of our headquarters at Jangwani Street,” added Hersi.
Also Read: Mkwasa, Ndilime urge active off-season training for players
Yanga’s coordinator, Hafidhi Saleh, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Manji’s pivotal role in stabilising the club financially and enhancing its performance on the field.
“He turned things around for us during challenging times and his leadership paved the way for several premier league titles,” Saleh remarked.
A former Yanga defender, Kenneth Mkapa, who worked closely with Manji, recalled the late chairman’s dedication to achieving excellence in domestic and international competitions.
“As the team’s manager, I witnessed firsthand his relentless pursuit of success. He was not just a leader but a visionary sportsman who left an indelible mark on our club,” Mkapa reminisced.
Athumani Chuji, who played for both Yanga and Simba in the past, thanked Manji for helping to further his career.
He wrote on his Instagram handle,”Manji played a crucial role in shaping my journey as a professional footballer. His contributions laid a solid foundation for the growth of football in our country,” Chuji acknowledged.
In conclusion, Yusuf Manji’s legacy as a transformative figure in Tanzanian football will be remembered for years to come.
His passion, leadership, and unwavering support for Yanga have left an enduring impact on the sport and the community he served.
