Tanzanian rugby is set for a fresh start as the Tanzania Rugby Union (TRU) appoints new head coaches for the national teams ahead of the 2025 season. The announcement, made in Dar es Salaam, aims to boost the sport’s growth and performance in regional and international competitions. With a focus on developing local talent, the new coaching lineup signals an exciting chapter for rugby in Tanzania.
New Leadership for National Teams
The TRU has named two experienced coaches to lead the men’s and women’s national teams. John Mwamba, a former Tanzanian rugby player with a decade of coaching experience, will take charge of the men’s team. Amina Hussein, a respected figure in East African rugby, has been appointed as head coach of the women’s team. Both appointments, effective from January 2025, come as the TRU prepares for the Rugby Africa Cup and other regional tournaments.
The coaching changes follow a challenging 2024 season, where Tanzania’s national teams struggled to secure top positions in regional competitions. The TRU aims to address these setbacks by bringing in coaches with deep knowledge of local players and international rugby trends.
Coaching Appointments Overview
| Team | Coach | Start Date | Previous Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s National | John Mwamba | January 2025 | Assistant Coach, Simba Rugby Club |
| Women’s National | Amina Hussein | January 2025 | Head Coach, Kenya Women’s U20 |
Voices from the Field
John Mwamba expressed optimism about his new role, emphasizing the potential of Tanzanian players. “We have talented athletes who need guidance to compete at the highest level. My focus will be on building teamwork and discipline,” Mwamba said during a press conference in Dar es Salaam.
Amina Hussein highlighted the importance of growing women’s rugby in Tanzania. “This is a chance to inspire young women and show that rugby is for everyone. We’re ready to work hard and make our mark,” she stated.
Building on Tanzania’s Rugby Legacy
Rugby in Tanzania has grown steadily over the past decade, with clubs like Dar es Salaam Dragons and Simba Rugby Club nurturing local talent. However, limited funding and coaching resources have hindered progress on the international stage. The TRU’s decision to appoint Mwamba and Hussein reflects a commitment to professionalizing the sport and aligning with Rugby Africa’s development goals.
The new coaches will focus on:
- Strengthening grassroots programs in schools and local clubs.
- Improving fitness and technical skills through regular training camps.
- Preparing for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, scheduled for July 2025 in Nairobi.
What’s Next for Tanzanian Rugby?
The TRU plans to hold national trials in February 2025 to select players for the upcoming season. With Mwamba and Hussein at the helm, Tanzania aims to improve its rankings in African rugby and inspire a new generation of players. Fans across Dar es Salaam and beyond are eager to see how the teams perform under this new leadership.
