Former Football Kenya (FKF) President Sam Nyamweya has congratulated Tanzania’s Taifa Stars for their performance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.

Though they failed to qualify for the knockout stage, Taifa Stars finished last in their Group F with two points after losing the opener 3-0 against Morocco, drew 1-1 against Zambia and then drew 0-0 against DR Congo.

Accordingccording to Nyamweya, who doubles up as the Patron of FKF Premier League side Shabana and was the former CECAFA secretary general, the Taifa Stars performed well being the only team from the East African region to have made it to the 2023 tournament.

“Although they did not progress to the round of 16, their performance was commendable, showcasing the growth and potential of the team,” said Nyamweya in a signed statement, adding: “Tanzania deserves a thumps up for displaying great football, I would like to congratulate the team for such a performance. Taifa Starts was also the sole nation to represent our region East Africa in the tournament and they did us proud.”

Nyamweya further called on the three East African nations – Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania – to shift focus to the hosting of Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) competition and the 2027 Pamoja AFCON in the region.

“Our focus as a region should now be preparations for the hosting of the tournaments and strengthening our squads so that our performance will see the teams fight to retain the trophy at least in East Africa.”