Four Tanzanian boxers are set to fly the national flag high tonight as they step into the ring for the finals of the prestigious President Cup, taking place at the Malouzini Sports Complex in Moroni, Comoros.
Representing the national boxing team familiarly known as “Faru Weusi wa Ngorongoro” (The Black Rhinos of Ngorongoro) the fighters qualified for the finals after stellar performances in the 2024 BMT Awards and other international tournaments.
Among them is Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Kassim Mbundwike, nicknamed “Mfupa wa Sokwe” (Ape Bone), who recently returned to the spotlight with another bronze at the 2025 African Military Games held in Morocco. He will face local contender Soilihi Anzali in the 75kg weight class.
Also fighting for glory is Ezra Paulo, a rising star who bagged bronze at the 2023 African Nations Championship in Accra and a silver medal at this year’s African Military Games. Paulo will take on Comoros’ Radjay Mohamed in the 60kg category.
Two debutants Ibrahim Mrema and Kaimu Kaimu will be making their first appearance in international boxing. Mrema faces Ilzam Taoufik in the 63.5kg division, while Kaimu will battle Mohamed Ali Abdoulhamid in the 54kg class.
Head Coach Samwel Kapungu, widely known in boxing circles as “Batman,” expressed confidence in the team’s readiness ahead of the finals.
“All our boxers are fit, focused, and fully prepared for tonight’s finals,” said Kapungu. “Victory is our mission. We’re calling on divine guidance and the support of all Tanzanians.”
Coach Kapungu is accompanied by team officials including Ramadhani Mazola (R&J Grade 1) and Major Valerian Lugongo, offering technical and strategic support.
The President Cup is being held in conjunction with celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Comoros’ independence.
The tournament features athletes from four countries—Comoros (hosts), Tanzania, Gabon, and Madagascar. The guest of honour for the finals is President Azali Assoumani of Comoros.
This international outing was made possible through collaboration between Tanzania’s National Sports Council (BMT), the Tanzanian Embassy in Comoros, the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF), and the Comorian Boxing Federation.
With eyes on the podium, the Black Rhinos are not only aiming for gold but also looking to cement Tanzania’s growing reputation in African and global boxing circles.