The government has intensified its support for the national men’s football team, Taifa Stars, as Tanzania steps up preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with the Deputy Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Mr Paul Makonda, arriving in Morocco on a morale-boosting mission.
Mr Makonda’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the team is fully supported, both on and off the pitch, as it seeks to make a strong impression at Africa’s premier football tournament.
His presence is intended to strengthen the players’ psychological readiness and reinforce confidence within the technical bench ahead of the highly demanding competition.
Officials said the decision to deploy senior government leaders to be close to the team forms part of a broader strategy to enhance unity, discipline and self-belief among players, particularly as Taifa Stars gear up for their opening Group match against continental heavyweights Nigeria.
Upon arrival, Mr Makonda was received by the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Mr Methusela Ntonda, the ministry’s Director of Policy and Planning, Mr Abel Philip, and Prof Madundo Mtambo, a member of the National AFCON 2027 Preparations Committee.
Taifa Stars are scheduled to open their AFCON 2025 campaign on December 23, 2025, with a Group-stage clash against Nigeria in the Moroccan city of Fes.
With the countdown to kick-off underway, Tanzanians at home and abroad are closely following the team’s progress, hopeful of a strong and competitive showing on the continental stage.