THANKS to the ongoing efforts of the Tanzania Rugby Union (TRU) and other stakeholders, Tanzania has the potential to emerge as the next rugby hub in Africa.
This sentiment was echoed by Tony Dunkerley and Jonathon Beswick, leaders of the visiting Tritons Rugby Club from the UK, who lauded TRU’s focus on youth development during their recent tour of the country.
The Tritons Rugby Club played an international friendly against the Tanzania Select XV at the Aga Khan Grounds in Dar es Salaam. The hosts claimed a historic 38-20 victory, Tanzania’s first international rugby win after several years.
The tour went beyond the game, as the UK team conducted youth clinics and donated rugby balls and training equipment to local players, demonstrating their support for TRU’s developmental initiatives.
Dunkerley expressed optimism about the future of rugby in Tanzania, saying: “Tanzania has a lot of talented players who are also dedicating their time to developing younger athletes.”
“The next generation is coming through and I’m excited to see how the sport will grow in the coming years.” He stated his intention to return for another rugby tour to support this promising progress. Beswick, meanwhile, emphasised the importance of grassroots development. “You’ve got some good players here. The focus should remain on getting kids to play, train and bring the whole country together through rugby. It’s about building depth and sustaining growth,” he said. He praised the Tanzania Select XV for their skill and potential, adding: “We played a very good team.
Tanzania was fast, they were quick at that in the backs, they’re quicker the breakdown and they deserve the win day. The key is to have more clubs competing and playing against each other often.
That’s how you build a competitive rugby ecosystem.” Tanzania XV select squad under captain Nassibu Haji were Juma Kittyler, Tobi Kallaghe, Kabwe Luke, Jackson John, Emmanuoiul Joseph, Paivin Rugambwa (Vice Captain), Samweli Waziri, Angus Inwood, Seif Mbaraka, Mustaki Bashiru, Hassan Ally, Gifty Joseph, Lachie Davidson, Vasco Mworia, Lewis Rafael, Mohamed Mulla, Arthur Bailey, Haji Madondola, Joel Ngogo, Liam Harris, Steve Charles, Joshua Richard, Paul Solomon and Michael David.
This match marks the second time TRU has hosted an international team, following the May 28, 2023, match against Bryncethin RFC from Wales.
The match ended in a 17-7 victory for the visiting team, despite challenging weather as rain interrupted the showdown, the match featured impressive displays of skill and sportsmanship, leaving spectators in awe. TRU highlights growth and tourism TRU president Jacob Jonas was delighted with the successful match and the opportunities it presented, not just for rugby but also for sports tourism.
“The Tritons arrived a day before the game and we had a wonderful showdown,” he said. “Their visit was not only about the match but also about exploring our country’s tourist attractions before they headed to Uganda.” Jonas highlighted the camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed during the match and noted significant improvements in local players. “We are happy with the progress so far.
Training and playing together more often will create chemistry and strengthen the national team ready for future international assignments.”
He expressed gratitude to the coaching staff, players, sponsors and the National Sports Council (NSC) for their support in hosting the match. “This is a step toward making Tanzania a rugby powerhouse in Africa and beyond,” Jonas added. Tritons’ unique tradition .
The Tritons Rugby Club also brought a unique tradition to Tanzania: every player wore a jersey with the number 33. Beswick explained the tradition, saying: “This number represents a family legacy.
Thirtythree years ago, my dad went on tour with the Tritons and before that, my grandfather did the same. We honour this tradition every 33 years.”
The Tritons’ tour to Tanzania, coupled with their contributions to youth development and the sport’s promotion, has set the stage for greater achievements in Tanzanian rugby.
With sustained efforts from TRU and its partners, Tanzania could soon establish itself as a leading rugby nation in Africa and also utilise the opportunity to boost sports tourism.
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