Dar es Salaam. President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has awarded TZS 50 million to the national women’s football team, Twiga Stars, in recognition of their historic qualification for the African Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to take place next year in Morocco.
The cash prize was handed over by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports and Government Spokesperson, Gerson Msigwa, during a special ceremony to honor the team’s achievement.
Speaking after the presentation, Msigwa congratulated the players for their dedication and effort, which have placed Tanzania prominently on Africa’s football map.
“These funds have been provided by President Samia in recognition of your outstanding performance. You have flown the national flag with pride. I urge you not to become complacent with this reward,” he said.
Msigwa highlighted that women’s teams have become role models, consistently excelling in local and international competitions.
He assured that the government, through the National Sports Council (BMT), will continue supporting Twiga Stars to strengthen their performance and sustain their progress.
“It is your responsibility to keep fighting and demonstrating your competitive spirit. The government will ensure this team continues to rise,” he added.
He also urged the players to take full advantage of the opportunities in sports, emphasizing that athletics not only provides employment and economic opportunities but also promotes health and personal development.
Msigwa praised the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), the technical bench, and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (JWTZ) and National Service (JKT) for their vital role in nurturing talent and supporting player growth.
TFF Vice President and Chairman of the Premier League Board, Idrisa Nassoro, commended the ministry for its efforts in advancing sports nationwide.
“The ministry is doing an excellent job, and we can see the remarkable progress in sports under its leadership,” Nassoro said.
BMT Executive Secretary, Neema Msitha, described the President’s gesture as a major morale booster for the team.
“As a government, we will continue collaborating with you to reach even greater heights,” Msitha said.
Twiga Stars captain, Anastazia Katunzi, thanked President Samia for the generous reward, saying it has renewed the team’s motivation and commitment to excel in upcoming competitions.