The head coach of Tanzania’s Under-17 women’s team, Bakari Shime, believes that women’s football presents the best opportunity for the country to achieve success on the global stage. Shime led the team to their first-ever World Cup appearance in India, where they were qualifying for the tournament. Despite their elimination in the quarter-finals, Shime sees this as a turning point for the women’s game in Tanzania.
Increasing the role of Women’s Football
In recent years, women’s football in Tanzania has been gaining momentum and attracting attention. The Women’s Premier League, established in 2016, has seen positive changes, including a three-year sponsorship deal in 2018. The league has become a top destination for players in the region, with increasing interest and competitiveness. Teams like Simba Queens, Yanga Princess, Fountain Gate Princess, and Tiger Queens have been able to sign foreign players and create a more competitive environment.
Furthermore, the success of Simba Queens, who became the first club from the central African region to compete in the Champions League, has demonstrated the potential of women’s football in Tanzania. However, financial backing remains a challenge for the women’s game, with many teams relying on the owners’ interests and love for the sport. To ensure sustainable growth, more investment and support are needed.
The Impact of the U17 Team’s Achievements
The achievements of Tanzania’s Under-17 women’s team have sparked a shift in people’s attitudes towards women’s football. Fans and football enthusiasts are now urging the government and the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) to invest more in women’s football, recognizing it as the country’s best chance to qualify for major tournaments such as the World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). The success of the U17 team, coupled with Tanzania’s triumph in the Cosafa Championship, has highlighted the potential for greater success in the future.
In order to continue progressing, the TFF, together with the government, needs to develop comprehensive plans for the growth of women’s football in Tanzania. This includes talent grooming, attracting more sponsors, and creating opportunities for players to participate in foreign leagues.
The Future of Women’s Football in Tanzania
The breakthrough achieved by the U17 team and the increasing profile of women’s football in Tanzania have set the stage for a perspective future. As Tanzania continues to invest in women’s football, the country has the opportunity to establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of women’s football. With continued support and strategic planning, Tanzania can leverage the success of its women’s football teams to achieve greater recognition and compete at the highest levels of the sport.
