The Tanzania rugby team is intensifying preparations for the Rugby Africa Cup 2025, set to take place in Uganda from July 8-19. With the tournament serving as a qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, the Taifa Lions aim to make a strong impression. This event marks a pivotal moment for Tanzanian rugby to showcase its growing talent on the continental stage.
Building Momentum for the Big Stage
Tanzania’s rugby scene has been steadily evolving, with the national team, known as the Taifa Lions, working to establish itself among Africa’s rugby powerhouses. The Rugby Africa Cup 2025, hosted at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, presents a golden opportunity. The tournament will feature top African teams, including defending champions South Africa, Kenya, and hosts Uganda, all vying for a spot in the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The Taifa Lions have been focusing on rigorous training camps and friendly matches to sharpen their skills. Recent efforts include a series of local tournaments organized by the Tanzania Rugby Union (TRU) to identify and nurture emerging talent. The team’s coaching staff, led by head coach Juma Mwinyimvua, has emphasized fitness, strategy, and teamwork as key pillars for success.
“We are preparing with determination to compete at our best in Uganda,” said Coach Mwinyimvua. “Our players are eager to show what Tanzanian rugby can achieve.”
Key Preparations and Challenges
The Tanzania Rugby Union has outlined a clear roadmap to ensure the team is ready. Below is a summary of their preparation strategy:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Training Camps | Monthly camps in Dar es Salaam and Arusha since January 2025. |
| Friendly Matches | Scheduled games against Kenyan and Ugandan club teams in June 2025. |
| Player Selection | Trials held in April 2025, selecting 30 players for the final squad. |
| Funding | Support from TRU and local sponsors, with additional government backing. |
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Limited funding and access to international exposure have historically hindered Tanzania’s rugby development. Competing against established teams like South Africa and Kenya, known for their physicality and experience, will test the Taifa Lions’ resilience. However, the team’s youthful energy and growing fanbase in Tanzania provide a strong foundation for optimism.
Voices from the Team
Team captain Hassan Kweka expressed confidence in the squad’s potential.
“Our goal is to play with heart and make our country proud,” Kweka said. “We’ve been training hard, and we believe we can surprise our opponents.”
The TRU has also been working to boost rugby’s popularity in Tanzania, with community outreach programs introducing the sport to schools in Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Zanzibar. These initiatives aim to build a sustainable pipeline of players for future tournaments.
Looking Ahead
The Rugby Africa Cup 2025 is more than a tournament for Tanzania—it’s a chance to elevate the sport’s profile and inspire a new generation of players. As the Taifa Lions finalize their preparations, all eyes will be on their performance in Kampala. A strong showing could pave the way for greater investment and recognition, positioning Tanzanian rugby as a rising force in Africa.
