Latest news with #Tanzanian
Express Tribune
14 hours ago
- Sport
- Express Tribune
Saudi's Al Hilal become dual champions
Mamelodi Sundowns forward Lucas Ribeiro (R) scores the goal voted the best at the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States. Photo: AFP Al Hilal became champions in two countries when they thumped Al Merrikh 4-0 on Tuesday to win the Elite League in Sudan, where a civil war has been raging since 2023. To escape a war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, according to the United Nations, Hilal and Merrikh competed in the Mauritanian championship, finishing first and sixth. However, Confederation of African Football rules state that only national champions can enter the CAF Champions League, forcing the two clubs to return home and play in army-controlled northeast venues. The national army have recaptured the capital, Khartoum, after two years of occupation by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, but fighting rages in other parts of the east African nation. Here, AFP Sport brings news from around the continent, including a personal triumph for Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro from South African club Mamelodi Sundowns. Sudan Hilal hammered greatest domestic rivals Merrikh after building a three-goal lead by half-time to be crowned Sudanese champions a record-extending 31st time. Hilal (plus 11) won the title on goal difference from Al Ahly Madani (plus 6) after both sides secured 14 points in the eight-club mini-league. Snatching the title means Hilal will extend a remarkable record of competing in the Champions League every season since 2004 while Madani will represent Sudan in the competition for the first time. South Africa The goal Ribeiro scored for South African champions Sundowns against Borussia Dortmund has been voted the best of the 2025 Club World Cup in a FIFA online poll. Securing possession in midfield, the 26-year-old used pace and footwork to burst through the defence before calmly shooting past goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. Unfortunately for Sundowns, the first goal of the group match in the 11th minute triggered an immediate response from the German outfit, who scored four times before finishing 4-3 winners. Tanzania Simba captain Mohammed Husseini will not have his contract renewed by Simba after 12 years at a club who have dominated Tanzanian football for decades with Dar es Salaam neighbours Young Africans. The 28-year-old left-back joined Simba from Kagera Sugar in 2014 and has been a first choice since under various coaches, including current incumbent, South African Fadlu Davids. Simba were runners-up in the CAF Confederation Cup and Tanzanian Premier League last season and suffered a surprise semi-finals loss to Singida Black Stars in the Tanzanian FA Cup. Ghana Abdul-Karim Zito has been elevated from caretaker to head coach of Asante Kotoko, a Ghanaian club seeking to become giants again in the west African nation. The two-time African champions came third in the league last season behind first-time title-holders Bibiani Gold Stars, then beat Golden Kick with an added-time goal to win the Ghana FA Cup. Lifting the cup qualified Kotoko for the CAF Confederation Cup, the second-tier African competition where Zito exceeded expectations in 2024 by taking another Ghanaian club, Dreams, to the semi-finals. Uganda Widely travelled Belgian coach Ivan Minnaert has swapped one domestic champion club for another by moving from Fassell of Liberia to Vipers of Uganda. Monrovia-based Fassell finished 11 points ahead of Heaven Eleven in the Liberian title race to be crowned national champions for the first time. Vipers, whose home ground lies 25 kilometres (16 miles) from the capital Kampala, won a much tighter Ugandan league chase, securing just two points more than runners-up NEC.
CAF
a day ago
- Sport
- CAF
Ten days to go: Tanzania ready to make CHAN history
Tanzania will be in the spotlight this August as co-hosts of the biggest-ever TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), alongside neighbours Kenya and Uganda. The East African nation sees this tournament not just as a celebration of African football but as a springboard for transforming its domestic game. With ten days to go, Taifa Stars CHAN head coach Hemed 'Morocco' Suleiman is preparing his team to compete in front of their home crowd. For the experienced tactician, CHAN represents far more than a competition — it is a proving ground for home-based players and a litmus test for Tanzania's football progress. In this exclusive interview with the coach talks about the significance of hosting CHAN, his expectations for the tournament, the strength of his squad, and his long-term vision for Tanzanian football. Q&A with Coach Hemed 'Morocco' Suleiman Q: Coach Hemed, what does it mean for Tanzania to co-host the biggest-ever CHAN tournament? Hosting CHAN alongside Kenya and Uganda is a historic moment for Tanzanian football. It's a powerful platform to showcase our local talent to a continental and global audience. The visibility this brings to the efforts being made domestically — especially by clubs like Simba, Yanga, and Azam — is massive. This tournament has already driven investment in infrastructure and development programs, which will have lasting benefits. It inspires our young players and gives them something tangible to dream about. More than a tournament, CHAN is a catalyst for long-term growth — improving facilities, increasing media attention, and raising public interest. It also gives our coaches and support staff valuable experience. Hosting reflects confidence in Tanzania's footballing project, and we take that responsibility seriously. Q: Your group features emerging teams like Burkina Faso, Mauritania, Central African Republic and Madagascar. How do you rate your opponents? We have great respect for all the teams in our group, including the Burkina Faso, Mauritania, Central African Republic and Madagascar. These are sides full of talented players and good tactical organization. In modern football, there's no such thing as an easy game, especially in CHAN where surprises are common. We've studied their recent performances and know they bring energy and elegance to their play. Our focus is on preparing thoroughly and treating every opponent with equal seriousness. Each match will demand full concentration and discipline. While we trust in our abilities, we know nothing will come easy. It's a competitive group and we're preparing accordingly. Consistency and focus will be key. Q: What is your main objective at this CHAN — short-term success or long-term development? Our primary objective is to be competitive and progress as far as possible in this tournament. But equally important is building a strong foundation for the future. CHAN is unique in that it highlights domestic-based players and helps us assess talent for long-term inclusion in the national team. We are balancing the pursuit of results with strategic development. Players from clubs like Simba and Yanga have already shown they can compete at the highest level in CAF competitions. CHAN is their chance to prove themselves for the national team. Reaching the knockout stage would be a great achievement, but identifying players who can become regular Taifa Stars is just as valuable. Q: How prepared are your players physically and mentally for the competition? Our players have come through a long and demanding domestic season. The Tanzanian Premier League is highly competitive, and our clubs' participation in CAF tournaments has built a strong base of fitness and toughness. Right now, it's about maintaining that level and ensuring freshness heading into the tournament. Mentally, Tanzanian players are known for their resilience and focus. That spirit is present in this squad. We've had to manage tight schedules, travel demands, and expectations, and that's prepared us for this CHAN. We've also implemented support systems for mental recovery. This is a team built on character and belief — and those will be our biggest strengths. Q: Which areas of your squad do you feel are the strongest going into CHAN? I believe we have a balanced squad, but our defensive organization stands out. We have an experienced and solid backline that understands the demands of high-level competition. In midfield, there's a good mix of energy, vision, and discipline, allowing us to control the tempo. Our attack is still developing its chemistry, but we've seen promising moments. Leadership within the group is also a major asset — several players bring maturity and professionalism. Of course, football is dynamic and strengths on paper must be proven on the pitch. We've worked hard on transitions and set pieces, but ultimately, our collective spirit is our greatest strength. Q: How has hosting helped improve your infrastructure and preparation time? Hosting has accelerated improvements in infrastructure and logistics. We've had access to better training pitches, upgraded stadiums, and enhanced medical and fitness equipment. Local authorities and the federation have supported us with travel, accommodation, and dietary planning. Early coordination with clubs ensured player availability, and we've had more time to build team cohesion and implement tactical plans. This level of preparation sets a new standard and reflects our serious intent. Success begins with proper planning, and we believe we're on the right track. Q: What's your assessment of the talent coming from the Tanzanian Premier League? The Tanzanian Premier League continues to produce exciting talent, and the standard has improved significantly. Clubs like Simba, Yanga, and Azam are setting benchmarks in training, professionalism, and tactical quality. That directly benefits the national team, especially in a tournament like CHAN, which is reserved for local players. We're seeing more young players with strong technical and physical attributes, and some are already attracting interest abroad. Our scouting teams follow the league closely, and we're impressed by the hunger and discipline of several emerging stars. There's still room for improvement in youth development and coaching education, but the direction is very positive. Q: How have fans in Dar es Salaam responded to Tanzania co-hosting CHAN? The response from fans in Dar es Salaam has been overwhelmingly positive and deeply personal. There's a strong sense of pride in hosting a tournament of this stature. The city has embraced the event with enthusiasm, and interest in our training sessions is growing. The support from clubs like Simba and Yanga, even putting aside their rivalry to back the national team, has been special. You can feel the buzz — people are talking about football everywhere. And of course, we're not forgetting Zanzibar. Many players in this team come from Zanzibar, and we want to make both Mainland and Zanzibar proud. Q: Do you believe Tanzania can better its past CHAN performances? Absolutely. We believe this is our best chance yet. Tanzania has qualified for CHAN three times — in 2009, 2011, and 2020 — but we've never progressed beyond the group stage. Each tournament has taught us valuable lessons. This time, as hosts, we benefit from home support and better preparation. Our top clubs Yanga and Simba are regularly competing in continental competitions, and this squad is more experienced, organized, and mentally tough than before. We're not taking anything for granted, but we believe this team has the quality to make history. Our aim is to go further than ever and make the nation proud. Q: What is your long-term vision for this group of local-based players post-CHAN? Our long-term vision is to give these players a platform to attract international opportunities and begin shaping a competitive squad for AFCON 2027, which we're also proud to host. CHAN is a valuable window for local players to perform in front of scouts, and we fully expect some to gain interest from clubs abroad. That kind of exposure is vital for their careers and for the international reputation of Tanzanian football. At the same time, CHAN is part of our broader plan. Players who perform well here will form the backbone of our future team. We're focused on consistency, professionalism, and building a squad that will be ready to compete when AFCON 2027 comes to Tanzania.
The Print
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Print
Kenya rights activist charged with unlawful possession of ammunition, court papers show
Mwangi was 'found in possession of noxious substances to wit three teargas canisters without lawful authority,' according to a charge sheet seen by Reuters. Police arrested Mwangi, 42, on Saturday and said they had recovered evidence from his home, including unused teargas canisters, a '7.62mm blank round', two mobile phones, a laptop and notebooks. NAIROBI (Reuters) -Prominent Kenyan human rights activist Boniface Mwangi was charged on Monday with unlawful possession of ammunition over his alleged role in deadly anti-government protests in June, according to court papers seen by Reuters. He was also accused of illegal possession of a single round of blank ammunition. The courtroom in the capital Nairobi was packed with hundreds of activists, some wearing Kenyan flags. Over the years Mwangi, who once ran for parliament on an anti-corruption platform, has earned a reputation for speaking out against human rights violations in Kenya and elsewhere. Last month hundreds of Kenyans took to the streets to protest against the death in police custody of political blogger Albert Ojwang. Police initially implied that Ojwang had died by suicide but later apologised after an autopsy found that his wounds pointed to assault as the cause of death. The demonstration over Ojwang's death reignited protests that had erupted last year over the cost of living and alleged police brutality and corruption. In May, Mwangi was arrested and deported from neighboring Tanzania, where he had traveled to observe a hearing in a treason case against detained opposition leader Tundu Lissu. He said afterwards that members of the Tanzanian security forces had sexually assaulted him and Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire during their detention. (Reporting by Humphrey Malalo; Writing by Elias Biryabarema; Editing by Ammu Kannampilly and Sharon Singleton) Disclaimer: This report is auto generated from the Reuters news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
The South African
2 days ago
- Politics
- The South African
Kenya dropped terror charges against activist Boniface Mwangi
Kenya dropped terrorism charges against activist Boniface Mwangi following widespread criticism on 21 July 2025. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had arrested Mwangi at his Lukenya home on 19 July 2025. Authorities initially accused him of facilitating terrorist acts during the 25 June 2025 protests. Rights groups condemned the charges as politically motivated and legally unfounded. Furthermore, Mwangi denied all allegations, declaring publicly, 'I am not a terrorist'. Mwangi now faces two charges: possession of blank ammunition and noxious substances without authority. The charge sheet cites one round of 7.62 mm blank ammunition and three teargas canisters found at Mageuzi Hub, Nairobi. Police allegedly recovered these items during a search on 19 July 2025. Mwangi pleaded not guilty and was released on a bond of KSh 1 million (approximately R140 000 – R150 000). His lawyer, Njanja Maina, disputed the legitimacy of the evidence presented. A coalition of 37 rights organisations, including the Police Reforms Working Group (PRWG), criticised the government's use of anti-terrorism laws against protesters. They stated Mwangi's arrest reflects a broader crackdown on youth-led dissent. Former Chief Justice David Maraga accused the government of weaponising the judiciary to silence critics. In addition, Siaya Governor James Orengo called the charges 'ridiculous' and legally baseless. The Anti-Terrorism Police Unit's involvement in protest-related arrests has sparked legal and public concern. CONTEXT: PROTESTS AND POLICE VIOLENCE Mwangi's arrest followed deadly protests against President William Ruto on 25 June 2025. Demonstrators demanded accountability for police brutality and economic hardship. Over 100 deaths have been reported since protests began in 2024, according to rights groups. Mwangi has previously faced arrest in Kenya and Tanzania for activism. As a result, his case at the East African Court of Justice alleges torture by Tanzanian police in May 2025. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Pink Villa
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
SSMB29: Mahesh Babu enjoys Sri Lanka trip, Priyanka Chopra schedules high-octane shoot in August
SSMB29 is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated upcoming projects, and fans are eagerly awaiting its release. While the makers have kept mum on revealing any details, there has been a lot of buzz and speculation that have kept everyone on their toes. According to the latest update, the cast and crew of the SS Rajamouli directorial are looking forward to an exhaustive schedule in August, which will cover a crucial part of the movie. Mahesh Babu goes for a Sri Lankan trip ahead of SSMB29's intense shoot According to an India Today report, Mahesh Babu, along with his family, has recently jetted off to Sri Lanka for a family vacation that also commemorates his daughter Sitara Ghattamaneni's birthday. The actor is said to have already undergone extensive physical training prior to the film and will resume shooting for the project once he returns. Priyanka Chopra allocates her dates for August shoot Right now, the cast and crew of SSMB29 are on a bit of a break as they gear up for a packed shooting schedule in the month of August. The report further revealed that Priyanka Chopra has also coordinated her dates accordingly. A source close to the film revealed, 'August is when the cameras start rolling again. Mahesh has been undergoing extensive physical training, and Priyanka's dates have been locked in after long coordination. This schedule is going to be intense and crucial for the story arc.' SSMB29's alleged plot leak Based on a previous report by a Tanzanian portal, The Citizen, the plot of SSMB29 is said to have been heavily inspired by an amalgamation of Indiana Jones and classic African adventure tales. The report read, 'Inspired by Indiana Jones and African adventure classics, the film follows a rugged explorer who sets out on a high-stakes mission through uncharted terrain, battling nature, mystery, and a powerful enemy to uncover a long-lost secret that could change the world.'
