TZ lives to expectations

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA entered history books yesterday after hosting a colourful opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), marking a major milestone in the nation’s rapidly rising sporting profile.

It is the first time this football-mad country is co-hosting a major continental football tournament. And it rose to the occasion, delivering a vibrant and memorable start to the eagerly awaited championship, which showcases home-based talent from across Africa.

The opening ceremony unfolded at a packed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, drawing thousands of passionate fans, football legends and dignitaries from across the continent in a dazzling celebration of culture, sport and unity.

Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa and former President Jakaya Kikwete were among the dignitaries who attended the grand opening. The atmosphere was electric, with colourful performances, live music and a parade of participating nations showcasing Africa’s rich cultural heritage.

The tournament, which features national teams made up exclusively of players active in their home leagues, will see intense competition over the next four weeks across venues in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has pledged a reward of 1bn/- to the Tanzanian envoys, Taifa Stars, if they win the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Moreover, if the team reaches the final, they will receive 500m/- and 200m/- if they make it to the semifinals. In addition, there will be a special ‘Goli la Mama’ (Mama’s Goal) bonus of 20 million for every goal scored in the semi-final.

On Friday, the Head of State highlighted that Tanzania has been honoured with the responsibility of hosting the opening match of the CHAN tournament. She said that the recognition reflects the country’s global reputation for peace, stability, dignity and hospitality.

“Tanzania has been given the great honour of hosting the opening match of CHAN, which is due to our reputation for peace, stability, respect and the hospitality we are known for,” President Samia said.

Speaking directly to the players, the Head of State expressed her belief in their abilities: “To our young men of Taifa Stars we believe in you.

When you give your best, you will be rewarded. If the trophy stays here at home, I have a special reward waiting for you” In the opening match, hosts Tanzania faced off against Burkina Faso in a thrilling encounter that set the tone for what promises to be a festival of football.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe said African football continues to gain global recognition, but what excites him most is the growing appreciation among Africans themselves. “We are seeing more fans at stadiums, more joy in watching the high-quality football played on our continent and steady improvements in infrastructure,” he said.

Speaking at the opening of CHAN, Motsepe said the tournament is part of a broader effort to uplift African football at every level.

“We have always said that players must be paid better, coaches must be supported and prize money must increase. A significant share of the prize money now goes directly into the pockets of young players,” he said.

He added: “CAF recently approved increased financial incentives for the current edition.”

Motsepe called for deeper collaboration with the private sector, urging sponsors, companies and multinational corporations to invest in African football.

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“We need your support to finance national teams, develop professional leagues and grow the game. Our viewers enjoy watching European football, but we want African football to be just as exciting and respected,” he said.

He further highlighted football’s broader social impact. “We are not just building careers in sport. Football inspires young boys and girls even those who do not pursue it professionally to chase other dreams, whether in medicine, engineering, or technology. It gives them hope and confidence,” Motsepe said.