Simba unveil ambitious reform plan to restore stability and unity

By Seth Mapoli , The Guardian
Published at 12:36 PM Dec 20 2025
Simba unveil ambitious reform plan to restore stability and unity
Photo: File
Simba unveil ambitious reform plan to restore stability and unity

SIMBA Sports Club have outlined an ambitious roadmap aimed at restoring stability, unity and long term success after nearly four seasons of inconsistency both on and off the pitch.

Speaking on behalf of the club’s Board of Directors, chairman Crescentius Magori (pictured) said Simba has reached a defining moment in its transformation journey, one that will reshape its governance, membership structure and infrastructure development.

 Magori began by acknowledging the role played by different stakeholders in keeping the club competitive during a challenging period. He expressed gratitude to club members, supporters, partners, the government and all well-wishers who continue to stand with Simba, while also offering special thanks to God for guiding the club through difficult moments.

 He highlighted Simba’s growing continental profile, noting that the club is now the second most followed football institution in Africa after Egypt’s Al Ahly, based on social media numbers. According to Magori, this level of digital engagement reflects Simba’s massive brand power and responsibility to operate at the highest professional standards.

 “The transformation process that began in 2017 is now nearing its conclusion,” Magori said. “It has not been easy. Apart from Germany, there are very few places where such a hybrid ownership and governance model works smoothly. These have been eight very challenging years, full of ups and downs, but necessary for where we want to go.”

 One of the most significant milestones, he revealed, is the approval of a new club constitution, which is expected to be officially registered within days. The document clearly defines the roles of the investor and club members, ending years of uncertainty that often fueled internal tensions.

 “For the first time, Simba will operate under a clear agreement that spells out what the investor is responsible for and what the members are responsible for,” Magori explained. “This is a major step forward.”

 As part of the reforms, Simba will also resume issuing membership cards after a prolonged suspension. The board believes this will strengthen accountability and supporter engagement, with Magori confidently stating that Simba is on course to become the club with the largest registered membership - not only in Tanzania but beyond its borders.

 Looking ahead, the club plans to introduce modern, multifunctional membership cards unlike anything currently available in the country. These cards will offer multiple benefits to members while creating a sustainable revenue stream for the club. Once the reforms are fully implemented, the investor will shift focus to infrastructure development.

 Magori confirmed that plans are underway to construct a five star training complex in Bunju, a project he described as critical to Simba’s long term sporting ambitions. “We are fortunate to have an investor who is also a Simba member,” he said. “Even when appointing board members, he chooses fellow Simba supporters. That alone should put to rest the divisive narratives we keep hearing. We are one family.”

 He urged supporters to reject language that creates division, stressing that unity is essential as the club builds a stronger financial base. According to the board chairman, Simba’s new systems will position the club to generate more revenue than any other club in the country, backed by improved governance and professional leadership structures.

 Addressing the team’s recent on field struggles; Magori defended the technical department, citing instability and injuries as key factors behind the inconsistent performances. He explained that the team was disrupted early in the season after the head coach who started the campaign departed, followed by the arrival of another coach with whom the club could not align strategically.

 Injuries also played a major role. Simba lost a key central defender during the Community Shield, followed by the injury of the first choice goalkeeper in the next match. Another central defender was sidelined during the club’s CAF Champions League trip to Mali.

 “These things are rarely mentioned, but they matter,” Magori said. “Yet the narrative is exaggerated. We have played five league matches and lost one, but you would think the world has ended.” He admitted that failure to reach the CAF Champions League quarterfinals would be disappointing, but insisted it should not be treated as a crisis.

 “Last season, another big team failed to reach the quarterfinals and there was no uproar. Let’s talk football honestly,” he said. “Simba supporters should not be misled.” Magori also dismissed speculation surrounding potential player exits in January, insisting the board remains firm and focused on the club’s broader vision.