Tanzania scores first FIFA seats

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has achieved a major milestone on the international football stage, with Wallace Karia, President of the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), being appointed Vice President of the FIFA Beach Soccer Committee.

The appointment makes him the first Tanzanian ever to hold such a senior position within the world’s top football governing body.

Announced officially by FIFA, Karia’s appointment marks a significant step forward not just for the country, but for African football at large.

He now joins an elite group of just five African leaders serving on this influential committee, tasked with steering the global development of beach soccer.

“This appointment is not just a personal honour, it’s a proud moment for Tanzania and the entire African continent,” said Karia, expressing his gratitude and commitment to growing the sport in collaboration with FIFA member nations.

Karia’s rise to the global stage is backed by a legacy of transformative leadership since taking the reins at TFF in 2017.

Under his watch, Tanzania has seen, upgraded football infrastructure, Stronger youth development systems, Participation in numerous international competitions and bold push to promote women’s football and beach soccer.

Now, with a seat at FIFA’s table, Karia is well-positioned to influence the future of beach soccer worldwide, while accelerating its development at home—where it is still in its early stages.

In yet another proud achievement, Hersi Said, President of Young Africans SC, has been appointed as a Member of FIFA’s Men’s Club Competitions Committee for the 2025–2029 term.

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This marks a historic first for East and Central Africa, as Said becomes the region’s first representative to sit on one of FIFA’s most influential global football committees.

His appointment, made official during the FIFA Council meeting on October 2 this year, is a recognition of his exceptional leadership and contributions to football development. He is expected to play a key role in planning, organising and overseeing men’s club competitions at the international level.

Adding to Tanzania’s historic hat-trick on the world stage, Neema Haji has been appointed to FIFA’s Youth Girls Competition Committee.

Her selection underscores the expanding role of Tanzanian women in shaping the global football landscape.

Neema’s presence on the committee represents a powerful step forward for gender representation and the future of women’s football in Africa.