The Tanzania men’s national pool team has made a remarkable run to finish second at the African Pool Championships, narrowly losing to South Africa in the final held on February 7 in Durban.
Tanzania went down 13-5 in the black ball final, but the team’s performance underlined the country’s growing strength in the sport.
The Tanzanian women’s team, however, was unable to advance beyond the group stage, facing stiff competition from the continent’s top players.
Speaking from South Africa, Akida Kilango, Media Officer of the Tanzania Pool Table Association (TAPA), said the tournament showcased high-level competition and strategic play from all participating teams.
“Our players gave their best, but the South African team leveraged home advantage and experience to secure the title,” Kilango said.
“This marks the second consecutive final between Tanzania and South Africa. In 2023, we lost 13-11, and overall, we have met them three times in finals but have yet to win.”he added
In individual events, Jackson Ng’anyi reached the men’s semi-finals, while Cecilia Kileo also made it to the women’s semi-finals, highlighting the country’s talent at the individual level.
Kilango added that, despite missing out on the championship, reaching the finals and semi-finals reflects Tanzania’s growing competitiveness in pool.
With enhanced preparation and support, he said the team has a strong chance of winning the African title in the near future.