Tanzania’s national women’s football team, Twiga Stars, will kick off their campaign at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) against South Africa in Morocco later this year.
Drawn in Group B alongside South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, and Burkina Faso, Twiga Stars face a golden opportunity to test their skills against some of Africa’s strongest teams.
Sports analyst Victoria Mungure told The Respondent that the group presents a positive challenge and reflects the growth of women’s football in Tanzania over the years.
“The level of players today is much higher than when we started. Twiga Stars have progressed significantly, which is why they now face top teams. Women’s football in Tanzania is evolving, and the changes are visible,” she said.
Mungure emphasized that international exposure is helping Tanzanian players gain recognition from scouts, offering opportunities to play abroad, while foreign players are increasingly joining the Tanzanian Women’s League, raising the standard of domestic competition.
She called on football stakeholders and fans to continue supporting Twiga Stars by fostering unity, encouragement, and belief in the team’s potential rather than criticism.
“Preparation, cooperation among stakeholders, and strong fan support are vital pillars that will help Twiga Stars shine at WAFCON 2026 and proudly represent Tanzania,” she added.
Mungure also encouraged fans to actively follow the Women’s League, noting that their engagement provides valuable feedback for coaches, including Head Coach Bakari Shime, and contributes to improving team performance and morale.
With strong preparation and backing from fans and stakeholders, Twiga Stars aim not only to compete but also to showcase the remarkable progress of women’s football in Tanzania on the continental stage.