The leadership of the Kigamboni District Football Association (KDFA) and local football clubs have been encouraged to prioritize the development of stadiums that will serve as a lasting legacy for future generations.
This call was made today, February 9, 2025, by Benny Kisaka, Vice Chairman of the Dar es Salaam Regional Football Association (DRFA), during the opening of the association's General Meeting held in Kigamboni District.
Kisaka emphasized the importance of securing land for the construction of stadiums that will be owned and maintained by the community, ensuring that future generations benefit from these facilities.
He highlighted a recent discussion in the General Meeting of the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), where President Wallace Karia urged every region to find suitable land for football infrastructure to strengthen the sport across the country.
"Each region must identify areas to own for football infrastructure, as this will provide long-term support for the growth of the sport," Kisaka said.
He also stressed the importance of investing in women's and youth football, particularly as FIFA is now allocating additional funding to these areas.
Kisaka urged clubs to foster a culture of supporting girls' participation in sports and providing them with necessary equipment such as footballs.
"By supporting girls' football and supplying equipment to schools, we will not only help develop the sport but also create job opportunities for coaches and other professionals," Kisaka added.
Kisaka further highlighted the need to enhance the capacity of coaches, referees, and football administrators to ensure sustainable growth and development in the sport.
Ramadhan Shauritanga, Chairman of KDFA, acknowledged the importance of the call and assured that the association would act on it.
He mentioned plans to renovate Machava Stadium, a project that has been promised by the Kigamboni Ward Councilor.
"It is crucial to have proper football facilities, and we are focusing on securing land for development, starting with the Tuamoyo area," Shauritanga explained.
He also urged clubs and centers involved in youth football, especially those that have not yet registered with the association, to get in touch with KDFA for assistance in the registration process.
In addition, Shauritanga spoke about a new system introduced by FIFA to track players' progress from childhood through to the age of 23.
This system will allow players to benefit financially if they are sold to other teams, creating more opportunities for youth players.
Lastly, Shauritanga emphasized the growing importance of women's football, underscoring the need for continued investment in and support for women's teams at all levels.