Tanzania’s national football team, Taifa Stars, has been rewarded with a cash gift after they successfully qualified for the Round of 16 at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Morocco.
The government through the Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu has rewarded the team with US dollars 201,822.70 which translates to 500 million Tanzania shillings, Ksh 26,113,360.35 million and UGsh 733,211,944.00 million.
The reward was announced by Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba during a phone call with the players and the technical bench, when they were visited by the Deputy Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda.
Dr Nchemba said President Samia Suluhu has also promised to give a bigger reward if Tanzania advances to the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Tanzania, which had its maiden AFCON appearance in 1980, drew 1-1 with Tunisia to enter the round of 16. It will face host Morocco for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Tanzania reached the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) knockout stage for the first time, 45 years after its maiden appearance, by coming from behind to draw 1-1 with Tunisia in Rabat on Tuesday.
Ismael Gharbi converted a penalty just before half-time for Tunisia, and Feisal Salum levelled early in the second half in the Moroccan capital.
Tanzania has been trying since 1980 to advance beyond the group stage, and has yet to win in 12 matches spanning four appearances. It squeezed into the round of 16 after two draws and one loss.
Tunisia finished second in Group C with four points, five less than table-topper Nigeria. Tanzania pipped Angola on goals scored for one of the four places reserved for third-placed teams.
“To qualify is great for Tanzania. I hope this success will be a reminder to these players and the next generation of players of the potential of Tanzanian football,” said Argentina-born Tanzania coach Miguel Gamondi, who replaced local Hemed Suleiman only last month.
“I feel very proud, not just for myself, but for the country. I wanted to change this mentality of Tanzania always being underdogs.
It should be noted that tomorrow, January 4, 2026, Taifa Stars will face the hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 19:00 hours (EAT).