By Business Insider Reporter
In a historic moment that underscores the remarkable rise of women’s football in East and Central Africa, Tanzania’s national women’s team – the Twiga Stars – clinched the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship title, thrilling fans with a commanding tournament performance capped by a 1-0 win over Kenya’s Harambee Starlets.
The victory, secured in front of a passionate home crowd at the Azam Sports Complex in Dar es Salaam, marked Tanzania’s first CECAFA crown since 2018 and reaffirmed their position as a growing force in African women’s football.
A final worthy of champions
In a final that pitted two unbeaten teams against each other, the stakes were sky-high.
Both Tanzania and Kenya had marched to the final without conceding a single goal, each showcasing tactical discipline, firepower up front, and impressive squad depth.
The match’s defining moment came just minutes into the second half when Saudi Arabia-based forward Clara Luvanga sent in a low cross that resulted in a moment of miscommunication between Kenyan goalkeeper Lilian Onyango Awuor and defender Enez Mango.
The ball deflected into the net for an own goal – enough to secure the title for the hosts.
Despite several late attempts by the Starlets, including surging runs and penalty appeals, Tanzania’s rock-solid defense, led by Ester Maseke, stood firm.
“We knew what was at stake, and the team showed heart,” said the Twiga Stars coach, Bakari Shime. “This was not just about one match – it was about pride, progress, and proving what Tanzanian women are capable of.”
A tournament of dominance
Tanzania’s road to the title was nothing short of emphatic. They opened their campaign with a 6-0 demolition of Burundi, followed by a 2-0 win over Uganda and a 4-0 rout of South Sudan.
Their clean sheet record and a potent attack underscored their championship credentials early on.
Kenya’s Harambee Starlets were equally dominant in their group-stage campaign, posting wins over Burundi (3-0), Uganda (4-0), and South Sudan (4-0). Led by head coach Beldine Odemba, and inspired by stars such as forward Martha Amunyolet and veteran captain Dorcas Shikobe, Kenya came into the final with confidence and cohesion.
But in the end, the Twiga Stars’ momentum and home advantage proved decisive.
Voices of victory
Team captain Opa Clement Tukumbuke, a standout performer throughout the tournament and a professional in Mexico, was full of emotion after the win.
“I’m proud of how far we’ve come. This trophy means a lot – not just for us, but for the future of women’s football in Tanzania. We hope this inspires young girls across the country.”
The crowd echoed her sentiment, erupting into celebration as the final whistle blew. The energy in the stadium was electric – fans waving flags, dancing in the stands, and singing songs of pride.
More than just a trophy
Tanzania’s CECAFA triumph goes beyond silverware. It signifies a broader shift in regional football dynamics.
With increased support, better training structures, and a clear focus on youth development, countries like Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda are cultivating a new generation of women footballers capable of competing on the continental and global stages.
This success also comes at a vital time. The Twiga Stars now look ahead to the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco later this year – a platform where the team aims to build on their CECAFA momentum.
Elsewhere in the tournament, South Sudan made headlines by defeating Burundi 3-1 in their final match, showcasing the increasing competitiveness across the region. Mary Bol, Sumaya MaliliTaban, and Nyama Nyamam Makuac Deng were the scorers in a historic win that will surely bolster their national program.
A future bright with possibility
The 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship was not just a celebration of sport – it was a celebration of ambition, resilience, and transformation. The Twiga Stars’ triumph serves as an inspiring chapter in East African football and a reminder that when investment meets opportunity, excellence follows.
With players like Clara Luvanga, Opa Clement, and Ester Maseke leading the charge, Tanzania has not only won a championship but also claimed its place at the forefront of a regional football renaissance. As the confetti settles and the spotlight turns toward WAFCON, one thing is clear: the Twiga Stars are rising – and they’re taking the hopes of a nation with them.
