Tanzania’s national amputee football team, Tembo Warriors, has arrived safely in Bujumbura, Burundi, to compete in the East and Central Africa Amputee Football Championship (CECAAF), which runs from September 8 to 14.
Head coach Ivo Mapunda said the squad was grateful for a smooth journey and is determined to make the nation proud on the regional stage.
“We thank God for bringing us here safely. The players are in good health and ready to raise the Tanzanian flag high. Our goal is to showcase the strength of amputee football by putting in a strong performance,” said Mapunda.
He praised the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania for facilitating the team’s travel and urged continued support as they represent the country.
“We ask Tanzanians to keep us in their prayers because we are here to fight for our nation,” he added.
Team captain Bashra Alombile promised total commitment from the players, calling for support from both the diaspora and fans at home.
“We are determined to deliver good results. We urge Tanzanians living in Burundi to come out in large numbers and cheer for us, while those back home continue to support us with prayers,” he said.
The 15-member squad includes: Ally Juma, Bashra Alombile, Abdulakreem Khalifa, Hassan Vuai, Richard Swai, Emmanuel Mrefu, Ally Cheche, Juma Kidevu, Rojas Vicent, Kassim Mbarouk, Frank Ngairo, Julius Ole Keika, Salim Chambo, Salehe Mwipi, and Modrick Mohammed.
The CECAAF tournament will bring together some of the strongest amputee football teams in the region, providing a platform to promote inclusivity in sports and inspire people living with disabilities.
For the Tembo Warriors, it is another opportunity to showcase resilience and strengthen Tanzania’s reputation in disability sports.
