Samia stresses AFCON preps
DAR ES SALAAM: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has called for national unity, early preparation and collective responsibility across all sectors as Tanzania gears up to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Kenya and Uganda.
The President made the remarks in Dar es Salaam during a special reception held in honour of Taifa Stars following their historic performance at the on-going AFCON finals in Morocco.
Tanzania reached the knockout stage of the continental tournament for the first time, advancing beyond a tough Group C that included Nigeria, Tunisia and neighbours Uganda.
Taifa Stars finished third in the group with two points after draws against Tunisia and Uganda, and a narrow 2–1 defeat to Nigeria.
Their campaign ended in the round of 16 after a hardfought 1–0 loss to host nation Morocco.
President Samia praised the players for their discipline, resilience and patriotism, describing their performance as a clear sign that Tanzanian football is steadily rising on the continental stage.
She said the team’s progress had strengthened confidence that the country will excel with colours in next year’s edition.
“As we prepare to host AFCON 2027, our responsibility is even greater. These preparations require national unity, early planning and close cooperation between government institutions, sports bodies, clubs and all stakeholders,” she said.
The Head of State emphasised that success in 2027 would depend on sustained investment in player development, competitive domestic leagues and adequate exposure for local players.
She urged football authorities to ensure Tanzanian players gain regular high-level match experience to build confidence and competitiveness ahead of the tournament.
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The President further directed the private sector to invest in sports infrastructure and academies, saying such partnerships would help establish a sustainable pipeline of talent capable of competing at the highest level.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for sports development, including investment in infrastructure and youth academies, in line with the ruling party’s development agenda.
During the event, President Samia Suluhu Hassan was honoured with two prestigious awards.
The first was presented by Taifa Stars, where National Team Vice-Captain Bakari Mwamnyeto handed the President a national team jersey bearing her name and signed by all the players, on behalf of his teammates.
The President also received an award from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), presented by the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Palamagamba Kabudi.
The award recognised Tanzania’s outstanding commitment and excellence in investing in the development of sports.
“This award from CAF recognises the government’s key role in investing in the growth of football in Tanzania. This recognition has provided me with a boost to ensure we prepare for even bigger and better AFCON 2027 finals,” said President Samia.
