Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam. As the global race for critical minerals intensifies, Tanzanian researchers are preparing to tackle one of the country’s biggest development questions: how can the nation’s vast mineral wealth be transformed into long-term prosperity rather than remaining a source of raw exports? This question will take centre stage during the 11th Research and Innovation Week at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), where scholars, policymakers, industry leaders and development partners will meet to discuss how strategic minerals can support Tanzania’s Vision 2050 and accelerate the country’s transition towards a knowledge-based economy.

The three-day event, which begins on June 9, carries the theme: “Harnessing Tanzania’s Mineral Wealth to Advance Renewable Energy, Digital Transformation and Societal Security.” According to UDSM Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Prof Nelson Boniface’s media statement on June 8, 2026, the discussions come at a time when demand for critical minerals is growing worldwide due to the expansion of renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, digital infrastructure and advanced manufacturing.

“The theme highlights the strategic importance of Tanzania’s mineral resources in driving 21st-century development,” Prof Boniface said. He noted that minerals such as graphite, nickel, lithium, cobalt and uranium have become increasingly important in renewable energy systems, while graphite, rare earth elements, copper and gold are essential in supporting digital transformation and emerging technologies.

For Tanzania, the challenge is no longer simply extracting minerals from the ground. The bigger question is how research, innovation and policy can help the country add value, develop local industries and create jobs from these resources.

Experts say countries that have successfully transformed their economies have often invested heavily in research and technology to ensure natural resources become catalysts for industrial growth rather than commodities for export. This is one of the reasons scholars gathering at the event are expected to examine how Tanzania can strengthen linkages between universities, government and industry to maximise the benefits of its mineral wealth.

The discussions will also focus on how research findings can support evidence-based policymaking and help position Tanzania to compete in emerging sectors linked to clean energy and digital technologies. University Director of Research and Publication, Dr Mathew Senga, said the annual event has increasingly become a platform through which the university demonstrates the impact of research on society, government and national development.

According to Dr Senga, research conducted at the university has contributed to solving practical challenges facing communities, informed public policy and strengthened the institution’s reputation both nationally and internationally. He said the growing visibility of UDSM research reflects the university’s commitment to producing knowledge that directly responds to Tanzania’s development priorities.

“Our focus is not only on generating knowledge but also ensuring that research translates into solutions that benefit society, support government priorities and contribute to economic transformation,” he said. The significance of this year’s event is further elevated by the participation of Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who is expected to deliver a public lecture during the opening day.

For many participants, Singapore’s development story offers valuable lessons. Despite its limited natural resources, Singapore transformed itself from a developing nation into one of the world’s most advanced economies through strategic investments in education, innovation, research and human capital development.

Researchers believe Tanzania can draw important lessons from Singapore’s experience, particularly in building strong institutions, supporting innovation ecosystems and investing in science and technology as drivers of economic growth. The public lecture is expected to provide insights into how nations can leverage knowledge, innovation and strategic leadership to achieve sustainable development.

Beyond the lectures and exhibitions, the event will host strategic partnership dialogues bringing together universities, research institutions, government agencies and private sector players to explore ways of commercialising research findings and accelerating value addition in the mining sector. As Tanzania advances discussions on Vision 2050, many observers view the country’s critical minerals as an opportunity to redefine its development trajectory.

However, they argue that the true value of these resources will depend not only on what lies beneath the ground, but also on the quality of research, innovation and policy decisions that determine how the wealth is utilised. .

Dar es Salaam. The Borega sisters are rapidly becoming household names in Tanzanian swimming after producing outstanding performances on both the continental and national stages, signaling the arrival of a new generation of talent capable of competing with the best in Africa.

In a remarkable week for the family, elder sister Lorita Borega made history by becoming the first Tanzanian female swimmer to qualify for the semifinals of the Africa Aquatics Zone IV Open Water Swimming Championships, while younger sister Leyna Borega dominated the 10th Tanzania National Junior Swimming Championships by topping the overall girls’ rankings and setting new competition records. The achievements have not only brought pride to their family and North Coast Swimming Club but have also highlighted the growing progress of swimming development programs in Tanzania.

Lorita, who is just 14 years old, produced one of the finest performances ever recorded by a Tanzanian female swimmer in open-water competition during the Africa Aquatics Zone IV Open Water Swimming Championships held in Mauritius. Competing against some of the region’s strongest swimmers, Lorita successfully qualified for the semifinals of the grueling five-kilometre freestyle race after clocking one hour and 22 minutes.

The race attracted about 60 swimmers from different African countries, with only the top 20 earning places in the semifinals. The talented Tanzanian further demonstrated her endurance and determination by also qualifying for the semifinals of the three-kilometre race, becoming one of the few swimmers to secure semifinal spots in multiple events.

Her qualification marked a significant milestone for Tanzania, as no female swimmer from the country had previously reached the semifinal stage of the prestigious continental open-water championships. However, the achievement did not come as a surprise to those who have followed her development.

Lorita had previously impressed during a similar African competition held in Mombasa, Kenya, where she also advanced to the latter stages of the championships. Her latest performance in Mauritius confirmed that her earlier success was no fluke and established her among the continent’s promising young open-water swimmers.

While Lorita was making history in Mauritius, her younger sister Leyna was making headlines back home at the International School of Tanganyika (IST) swimming pool in Masaki, Dar es Salaam. The 12-year-old North Coast Swimming Club swimmer delivered a breathtaking performance at the Tanzania National Junior Swimming Championships, emerging as the highest-ranked female swimmer in the competition with 57 points.

Leyna’s dominance was evident throughout the championships as she topped all her events, won multiple gold medals and set new championship records, leaving a lasting impression on coaches, officials and spectators. Her record-breaking performances demonstrated her exceptional speed, technique and consistency, qualities that have made her one of the most exciting young swimmers in the country.

The championships attracted more than 400 swimmers from Tanzania, Kenya and Zambia, making Leyna’s achievement even more impressive. Competing against some of East Africa’s best junior swimmers, she consistently outperformed her rivals and established herself as the swimmer to beat in her age category.

Her success also played a crucial role in helping North Coast Swimming Club finish second overall in the medal standings after collecting 27 medals, narrowly behind Kenya’s Bandari Swim Club. Leyna finished well ahead of Kenya’s Mariana Machocho of Bandari Swim Club, who placed second in the girls’ rankings with 45 points.

North Coast’s Cara Katanga secured a share of third place with Premier Swim Club’s Melissa Shao after both swimmers accumulated 33 points. Other swimmers who finished among the top 10 included Aisha Hassan of Lake Victoria Sports Club, Ithra Kahemele of Dar Swim Club, Catherine Elizabeth Jmes of Lake Victoria Sports Club, Evanna Namakate of Taliss-IST, Sophia Omar Said of Bandari Swim Club and Camilla Kyenekiki of Dar Swim Club.

For North Coast Swimming Club, having two Borega sisters excel simultaneously on different stages is a testament to the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent and preparing athletes for both national and international competition. As Lorita continues to raise Tanzania’s profile in open-water swimming and Leyna rewrites records in the pool, the sisters are providing inspiration to a new generation of swimmers across the country.

Their achievements offer a glimpse of a bright future for Tanzanian swimming and suggest that the Borega name could remain at the forefront of the sport for many years to come. .

Kigoma. The High Court in Kigoma Sub-Registry has granted leave for a judicial review challenge against President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s decision to appoint the chairperson and commissioners of a Presidential Commission of Inquiry into criminal matters linked to electoral violence during and after the 2025 General Election.

The ruling was delivered on Monday, June 8, 2026, by Justice Rwizile. The case arises from an application for leave to institute judicial review proceedings seeking to contest the President’s decision to appoint the chairperson and members of what is commonly referred to as the Lila Commission, currently before the High Court Sub-Registry in Kigoma.

The application was filed by activists Buberwa Kaiza and Joseph Mabugo against the Attorney-General, the chairperson of the commission, Court of Appeal judge Shaban Ally Lila, and three commissioners. The commissioners, all retired High Court judges, are Gad John Mjemmas, Awadh Mohamed Bawazir, and Aishieli Nelson Sumari.

The commission was announced by President Hassan on May 18, 2026, following the report of a Presidential Commission of Inquiry into breaches of peace during and after the October 29, 2025, General Election, chaired by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman. The applicants sought leave to file judicial review proceedings, asking the court to quash the President’s decision appointing the commissioners and to restrain her from taking similar actions, arguing that she lacked legal authority to do so.

During the hearing, lawyers Mpale Mpoki and Hekima Mwasipu submitted that the applicants had met the three legal thresholds for leave: an arguable case, sufficient interest, and filing within six months of the contested decision. The court noted that the only disputed issue was whether an arguable case had been established, prompting detailed legal arguments from both sides.

A panel of six state attorneys opposed the application, arguing that the applicants had failed to demonstrate an arguable issue. Two lawyers for the applicants maintained that such an issue clearly existed.

In his ruling, Justice Rwizile agreed that the applicants had satisfied the uncontested requirements, noting that the application was filed within seven days of the decision and that the applicants had sufficient interest in the matter as citizens affected by electoral violence. On the contentious issue, the judge noted that Section 20 of the Commission of Inquiry Act requires that a commission be published in the Government Gazette before it can commence operations.

He further observed that no evidence was presented showing that the Judge Lila Commission had been gazetted, as required by law. However, he said both sides acknowledged the commission’s formation and appointments, with disagreement centring on its legal validity in the absence of gazettement.

Justice Rwizile held that, based on the applicants’ affidavit and supporting documents, there was a substantial question as to whether the President had legal authority to establish the commission in the manner challenged. He said this raised an arguable issue that warranted determination by the court.

“I am satisfied that the application meets all requirements and an arguable issue has been established,” he ruled. The court therefore granted leave, allowing the applicants to file a substantive judicial review application within 14 days.

The respondents were represented by a team of government lawyers led by Senior State Attorney Mark Mulwambo, assisted by Senior State Attorney Vivian Method and Senior State Attorney Stanley Kalokola, alongside Senior State Attorneys George Kalenda and Edwin Webiro, and State Attorney Erigh Rumisha. .

Dar es Salaam’s rugby community is gearing up for another exciting weekend as the Dar Leopards Annual Touch Rugby Tournament returns to Ufundi Stadium in Mikocheni on Saturday, 13 June 2026, with matches and activities running from 9:00am to 6:00pm. Widely regarded as one of the city’s most anticipated social rugby events, the tournament will bring together players, supporters, families and corporate partners for a full day of touch rugby, entertainment and community celebration.

Hosted by Dar Leopards Rugby Club, the annual event continues to play a vital role in promoting rugby across Tanzania by providing a welcoming and inclusive platform for both experienced players and newcomers to enjoy the sport. Beyond the competition, the tournament fosters teamwork, fitness, sportsmanship and the growth of rugby culture throughout the country.

This year’s edition is expected to attract 20 teams from across East Africa. Reigning champions Karen Crusaders will return to defend their title against strong opposition from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Nairobi, Iringa and Arusha.

While the on-field action promises plenty of excitement, spectators can also look forward to a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the day at Ufundi Stadium. Entry is free, with food and beverage vendors, live music, a dedicated children’s zone and a family-friendly environment ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The celebrations will extend beyond match day, with a Friday night social gathering at The Slow Leopard on Chole Road, followed by an official after-party, making the tournament a true rugby festival both on and off the pitch. The event is made possible through the support of a strong network of sponsors.

Roadgrip headlines this year’s tournament as Gold Sponsor, while Airswift Workforce Solutions and Baker and Sons Safari Company join as Silver Sponsors. Bronze Sponsors include OLEA Insurance Brokers, Reveurse, Steinweg Logistics, ZanBluu Beach Hotel, AMEL Asset Finance Solutions, Meta and The Slow Leopard.

Additional support has also been provided by Painted Dog Craft Gin, Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL), GardaWorld and Splendid Cleaning and Events Speaking ahead of the tournament, Dar Leopards Rugby Club expressed its appreciation to sponsors, players and supporters for their continued commitment to the development of rugby in Tanzania. “The Annual Touch Rugby Tournament is more than a competition.

It is a celebration of sport, friendship and community. Every year, we see the rugby family grow stronger, and we are grateful to our sponsors and supporters who continue to stand with the club and help us make this event bigger and better.

” As the countdown begins, Dar Leopards Rugby Club is inviting rugby enthusiasts, families, corporate teams and members of the wider public to join the festivities at Ufundi Stadium on 13 June for a memorable day of sport, fun and community spirit. Spectator entry is free, ensuring that everyone can enjoy what promises to be one of the standout rugby events on the city’s sporting calendar.

.

The United States denied entry to Somali football referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan over the weekend, preventing him from becoming the first Somali official to referee at a World Cup. FIFA said on Monday that Artan would be unable to train or officiate at the tournament, which begins on Thursday, after US authorities refused him entry into the country.

“FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan’s status will not be changed at present,” a FIFA spokesperson said. Artan said he remained optimistic despite the setback and would continue focusing on his refereeing career.

“I would like to thank FIFA and CAF for all their support, and I promise to keep my refereeing standards high as I concentrate on the future,” he said. “I want to thank the football family for their messages and wish my colleagues every success during the World Cup.

I look forward to joining them again in future competitions.” US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said a Somali national arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday and was deemed inadmissible following additional vetting.

The agency did not provide further details, citing law enforcement, national security and immigration considerations. The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of immigration policies under President Donald Trump.

Last year, Washington imposed a travel ban affecting citizens of 12 countries, including Somalia. Artan, who was named the Confederation of African Football’s Best Male Referee for 2025, reportedly held a valid visa.

Somalia’s embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment. .

Dar es Salaam. Singapore and Tanzania have pledged to deepen economic cooperation, with leaders and business executives from both countries identifying trade, investment, logistics, tourism and the digital economy as priority areas for future collaboration.

Speaking at the Tanzania-Singapore Business Forum on Tuesday, June 09, 2026, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam said the two countries were building on long-standing ties rooted in centuries of Indian Ocean trade. Although geographically distant, he said Tanzania and Singapore share a history of exchange that can be leveraged to strengthen economic partnerships in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

“We know the international trading order is not what it used to be. It is more uncertain, and that uncertainty is likely to endure.

In such a world, the answer must be to diversify, build new corridors of opportunity and create more resilient supply chains,” he said. President Shanmugaratnam described Tanzania as a country of immense promise, pointing to its youthful population, abundant natural resources, expanding investment opportunities and strategic location linking regional and global markets.

He said sectors such as agribusiness, tourism, infrastructure, logistics and the digital economy present strong prospects for collaboration between Tanzanian and Singaporean firms. “From sectors like agribusiness to tourism, there is real potential for meaningful partnership, combining Tanzania’s advantages with Singapore’s experience in efficient systems, advanced supply chain management, high-value services and the digital economy,” he said.

He said that stronger cooperation would help create jobs, enhance skills and support inclusive growth in both countries. During the visit, the two governments signed an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation and a memorandum of understanding on carbon credit cooperation.

President Shanmugaratnam said the tax agreement would reduce the cost and risk of doing business while boosting investor confidence. “We signed an avoidance of double taxation agreement, which will lower the cost of doing business, reduce the risks of doing business and thereby give investors greater confidence,” he said.

The two countries are also working towards a bilateral framework to facilitate carbon credit transactions and climate-related investments. On her part, President Samia Suluhu Hassan described the visit as historic, marking the first state visit by a Singaporean Head of State to Tanzania, coinciding with 45 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

She said talks between the two leaders had resulted in agreements aimed at elevating bilateral relations and expanding economic cooperation. President Hassan noted that Singapore’s experience in economic transformation, port development, technology and investment management offers valuable lessons for Tanzania as it advances its industrialisation agenda.

She said Tanzania remains one of Africa’s fastest-growing and most stable economies, strategically positioned as a gateway to East and Southern Africa and the wider African market of more than 1.4 billion people.

“Despite strong diplomatic ties, significant opportunities remain untapped, particularly in trade, logistics, tourism, infrastructure and digital services,” she said. The President added that both countries should work towards building resilient supply chains and diversifying economic partnerships amid growing uncertainty in the global trading environment.

Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF) chairperson Angelina Ngalula said the long-standing friendship between the two countries should now translate into concrete commercial partnerships, joint ventures and investments. She said Tanzania offers growing opportunities in agriculture, agro-processing, mining, transport and logistics, energy and infrastructure.

According to her, Singapore’s strengths in technology, financial services, logistics, engineering and skills development align closely with Tanzania’s development priorities. “Governments can create an enabling environment and open doors, but it is the private sector that must drive trade and investment.

The real deals will be made by businesses,” she said. Ms Ngalula urged companies from both countries to use business-to-business engagements to identify investment opportunities and commit to practical follow-up actions.

Meanwhile, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) said it plans to expand its presence in Tanzania and across Africa as part of efforts to deepen commercial ties with the continent. SBF Vice Chairman Mark Lee said Africa is increasingly seen as a strategic growth market, with Tanzania emerging as one of the region’s most attractive investment destinations.

“We believe in Africa and we aspire to do considerably more on this continent than we have done to date,” he said, citing Tanzania’s strategic location, East African Community membership, investment reforms and expanding logistics infrastructure as key attractions for Singaporean investors. He said Singapore has registered 36 investment projects in Tanzania since 1997, valued at more than $500 million and creating over 3,000 jobs.

“Our role is to translate political momentum into commercial substance, into trade, investment and partnerships that endure beyond the headlines of a state visit,” he said. A delegation of 15 Singaporean companies is currently exploring opportunities in industrial logistics, consumer goods, green technology, digital solutions and tourism, signalling growing interest in Tanzania as a gateway to East Africa.

.

Dar es Salaam. The opposition party, Chadema, has dismissed viral social media reports claiming it has reinstated former firebrand legislator Halima Mdee to bolster its ranks ahead of a renewed political contest with the ruling CCM.

Speaking in a telephone interview with The Citizen yesterday, Chadema secretary-general John Mnyika clarified that the party’s constitution and regulations prescribe a specific procedure for any expelled member seeking readmission. He emphasised that the process requires the individual to formally apply for membership through a written letter.

“After they have applied, the specific meeting or organ that expelled them must convene to deliberate on the letter and decide whether the membership is to be accepted or not,” said Mr Mnyika. He noted that the procedure differs significantly from that of members who resign voluntarily, as expelled individuals must have their reinstatement considered by the same body that removed them.

Mr Mnyika maintained that if such a process had taken place, it would already be a matter of public record. “If all those processes had been conducted, it would have been public knowledge by now,” he added, insisting that such reports are false.

The controversy dates back to November 27, 2020, when Chadema stripped 19 cadres of their membership after they were sworn in as Special Seats Members of Parliament in Dodoma without the party’s authorisation. The legislators included Halima Mdee, Esther Matiko, Grace Tendega, Cecilia Pareso, Ester Bulaya, Agnesta Lambert, Nusrati Hanje and Jesca Kishoa.

Others were Hawa Mwaifunga, Tunza Malapo, Asia Mohammed, Felister Njau, Naghenjwa Kaboyoka, Sophia Mwakagenda, Kunti Majala, Stella Fiao, Anatropia Theonest, Salome Makamba and Conchesta Rwamlaza. The group was expelled for allegedly acting contrary to the party’s position and failing to honour a summons issued by the National Council.

Following their expulsion, the MPs appealed to the party’s Governing Council, which upheld the decision. They subsequently sought legal redress in the High Court in an attempt to challenge the party’s move.

However, their legal battle hit a snag when High Court Judge John Mgetta dismissed their application on a technicality. The court sided with Chadema advocate Peter Kibatala, who argued that the MPs had sued a non-existent institution by naming the ‘Board of Trustees’ instead of ‘The Registered Trustees, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo-Chadema’.

Judge Mgetta ruled that the defect was substantial enough to warrant dismissal. Following the dissolution of Parliament in June 2025, the political landscape shifted as the 19 former legislators sought new political homes ahead of the October 29, 2025, General Election.

By late 2025, the ruling CCM, ACT-Wazalendo and Chaumma had emerged as the new platforms for at least 11 of the former Chadema members. While several, including Sophia Mwakagenda and Naghenjwa Kaboyoka, had previously held leadership or committee positions in the House, others actively sought CCM’s endorsement for the 2025 polls.

At the time of the realignments, Ms Mdee was among eight former members who had yet to publicly declare a new political affiliation and maintained that she wouldn’t join any other political party. She had previously criticised the process that led to her expulsion as being “clouded by intrigue and lacking transparency.

” As reports of her return continue to circulate in 2026, the lingering question remains whether the time is right for Ms Mdee to rejoin the party she once served with such vigour. For now, however, Chadema insists that its constitutional doors remain closed until a formal application is submitted and duly considered.

.

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania and Singapore have signed a series of agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation in trade, investment and development, marking a new chapter in relations between the two countries.

The agreements were signed during a three-day state visit by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who held talks with President Hassan at State House in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday. The two leaders agreed to expand cooperation in economic development, digital transformation, agriculture, health and skills development, while enhancing collaboration between government institutions.

President Hassan said Tanzania had invited Singapore to establish a diplomatic mission in the country. She added that both nations had agreed to promote trade and investment, particularly in the digital economy, as Tanzania implements its Digital Economy Strategy 20242034. President Shanmugaratnam said the discussions also covered cooperation in tackling sickle cell disease, increasing investment in agriculture and supporting efforts to advance trade integration across Africa.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan leads the Tanzanian delegation during bilateral talks with a Singaporean delegation led by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam in Dar es Salaam on June 9, 2026. PHOTO | STATE HOUSE Five agreements and memoranda of understanding were signed during the visit. They cover the avoidance of double taxation, prevention of tax evasion, public service capacity building, trade facilitation and policy consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries.

The visit is the first by a Singaporean president since Tanzania and Singapore established diplomatic relations in 1980. It comes as the two countries mark 45 years of diplomatic ties. The visit, which runs from June 8 to 10, is part of Tanzania’s efforts to strengthen economic diplomacy and attract investment, technology and expertise.

.

Dar es Salaam. Mainland Premier League giants Young Africans (Yanga), Simba and Azam FC have received a timely boost ahead of the resumption of the league on Friday following the return of several key players who had joined their respective national teams for the FIFA international window.

The league resumes with three matches on Friday, with Azam FC taking on Fountain Gate FC at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium. In other fixtures, KMC will host TRA United at the KMC Complex from 6:30 pm, while Coastal Union will entertain Namungo FC at the Mkwakwani Stadium from 9 pm.

The return of international players is expected to strengthen the title-chasing sides as the season enters a crucial stage. The Tanzania national football team, Taifa Stars, returned home yesterday from Marrakesh, Morocco, where they had planned to play two international friendly matches against Uganda and Rwanda.

However, both matches were postponed due to sanitary and public health considerations. Yanga, who are defending the league title, had three players in the Taifa Stars squad: Ibrahim “Bacca” Hamad, Bakari Mwamnyeto and Mudathir Yahya.

Their return comes as a welcome relief to the technical bench ahead of the club’s remaining fixtures. Apart from the Taifa Stars trio, Yanga also had several foreign-based internationals away on national duty.

First-choice goalkeeper Djigui Diarra was with the Mali national team, striker Prince Dube joined Zimbabwe, while midfielder Allan Okello linked up with Uganda’s national team. The Cranes Reports from the club indicate that all the players are expected to rejoin training sessions today and tomorrow as preparations intensify for the league run-in.

Simba also had three representatives in the Taifa Stars squad namely Seleman Mwalimu, Nickson Kibabage and Vedastus Masinde. The trio are expected to join their teammates in training today as the Msimbazi Street side continues preparations for its upcoming assignments.

Azam FC, meanwhile, released four players to Taifa Stars. The quartet of Zuberi Foba, Aishi Manula, Elias Lawi and Pascal Msindo are expected to rejoin the squad between yesterday and today ahead of Friday’s encounter against Fountain Gate.

Other clubs will also welcome back their international representatives. Pamba Jiji goalkeeper Yona Amos, Namungo midfielder Abdulkarim Kiswanya, Mashujaa defender Mohammed Mussa and Coastal Union’s Bakari Msimu are all expected to return to training today.

Their return is set to add quality and depth to their respective squads as the race for league points resumes across the country. .

Dar es Salaam. The Zanzibar national football team, popularly known as the Zanzibar Heroes, is set to face Uganda, nicknamed The Cranes, in an international friendly match on Friday at the New Amaan Complex.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:15 pm, according to Zanzibar Football Federation (ZFF) Secretary-General Hussein Ahmada Vuai, who described the fixture as a key part of preparations for both teams ahead of upcoming international assignments. Uganda were originally scheduled to face the Tanzania national football team (Taifa Stars) in Marakesh, Morocco on June 5, but that match was postponed following a decision by Moroccan authorities due to sanitary and public health considerations.

The friendly against Zanzibar now provides Uganda an opportunity to regain competitive momentum ahead of future fixtures. Uganda is set to arrive in Zanzibar today, while the Zanzibar Heroes will also begin their training camp today in preparation for the match.

Head coach Hemed Suleiman “Morocco” has named a strong squad that includes goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Goalkeepers selected are Ahmed Issa Haji “Bolo” (JKU SC), Hamad Ubwa “Baro” (Mlandege FC), and Suleiman Said Abraham (Namungo FC).

Defenders called up for the match include Salum Khamis “Gado” (JKT Tanzania FC), Said Mussa “Mbeki” (Mlandege FC), Mukrim Issa “Miranda” (Singida BS), Ibrahim Abdallah Hamad “Baka” (Yanga SC), Abdulmalik Adam “Agreiy” (Singida BS), Hussein Ali “Mbegu” (Simba SC), Abdallah Kheir “Sebo” (Singida BS), Mohamed Mussa Salum (Mashujaa FC), and Abubakar Nizar “Ninju” (Yanga SC). The midfield comprises Jamal Saleh “Jaku” (Mlandege FC), Fahad Msham Said (Meridiana Spain), Abdulnasir Mohamed “Casemiro” (Yanga SC), Abdulnassir Asaa “Gamal” (Mashujaa FC), Sheikhan Khamis Ibrahim (Yanga SC), Mudathir Yahya Abass (Yanga SC), Abdallah Yassin “Kundana” (Mbeya City), and Feisal Salum Abdallah “Feitoto” (Azam FC).

Leading the attack, the Heroes will field Mzee Hassan Mzee (Azam FC), Aimar Hafidh Abubakar (Azam FC), Mansour Omar Kombo (Black Sailor FC), Ali Khamis “Kokoro” (Fufuni FC), Mussa Hassan Salum (Mlandege FC), Ali Khatib “Inzaghi” (Uhamiaji FC), and Muslih Simai Ameir “Morata” (Kipanga FC). Coach Hemed “Morocco” Suleiman expressed confidence in his squad, describing the friendly as a platform to assess team readiness, build cohesion, and showcase Zanzibar’s football talent on the international stage.

Fans and football enthusiasts are expected to flock to the New Amaan Complex for what promises to be a thrilling night of competitive football, tactical battles, and a celebration of community and sport. .