CECAFA Women’s Championship Returns to Tanzania for WAFCON Prep

In Summary:

The CECAFA Women’s Senior Championship is back after three years, taking place in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from June 12-22, 2025.
This tournament is a key preparation step for teams aiming for the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and the 2026 qualifiers.
Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, Kenya, and South Sudan are confirmed to participate, with the event also part of CECAFA’s bigger plan to grow different types of football in the region.

The CECAFA Women’s Senior Championship is making its highly anticipated return in Tanzania from June 12-22, 2025, after a three-year break. This important tournament will help women’s national teams, including hosts Tanzania and defending champions Uganda, get ready for upcoming continental competitions like WAFCON and the 2026 qualifiers.

The Comeback: Why This Championship Matters

The CECAFA Women’s Senior Championship is back after three years. Photo courtesy.

The return of the CECAFA Women’s Senior Championship is a strategic move, perfectly timed to serve as a vital preparation tool for the region’s top teams.

Yusuf Mossi, CECAFA’s Competitions Director, emphasized this point, stating, “This competition will help our representatives, especially Tanzania, as they prepare for WAFCON. It will also benefit teams getting ready for the 2026 qualifiers.”

The tournament, which boasts a history stretching back to 2016, has consistently been a platform for emerging talent and a stepping stone to continental success.

Uganda clinched the last title in 2022, overcoming Burundi with a 3-1 victory in Njeru.

For Tanzania, a two-time champion, hosting the event for the first time since 2018 provides a golden opportunity to reclaim regional dominance on home soil.

As Tanzanian forward Aisha Mnunka passionately put it, “We’re ready to give our best and make our country proud.”

This championship’s revival signifies a renewed focus on nurturing and elevating women’s football across East and Central Africa.

Contenders Gather: Teams Set for Dar Showdown

The stage is set in Dar es Salaam for a fierce competition among the confirmed participants and potentially more.

Tanzania, as the most successful team in the championship’s history with two titles, will undoubtedly leverage home advantage and passionate crowd support in their quest to lift the trophy.

Uganda, as the defending champions, arrives with the confidence of their 2022 triumph and a strong desire to repeat their success.

Burundi and South Sudan are also geared up to bring their best, looking to make a significant impact.

With the CECAFA Women’s Championship being the sole senior women’s football event in the region this year, the stakes are exceptionally high, making every match a must-watch for fans and scouts alike.

The tournament will not only determine the regional champions but also provide invaluable match practice and tactical insights for teams aiming for a spot in the 2026 WAFCON qualifiers later in October.

“This is our chance to show what we can do,” remarked Uganda’s coach, highlighting the competitive spirit that will permeate the championship.

This championship’s revival signifies a renewed focus on nurturing and elevating women’s football across East and Central Africa. Photo courtesy.

Beyond the Pitch: CECAFA’s Broader Vision for Football

The return of the Women’s Senior Championship is just one facet of CECAFA’s ambitious calendar for 2025, demonstrating the region’s commitment to diverse football development.

Following this women’s tournament, Mombasa, Kenya, will host the inaugural CECAFA Beach Soccer Championship from July 7 to 12, showcasing the organization’s efforts to expand into new football formats.

Other key events lined up for the year include the crucial CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers and the prestigious Dar Port Kagame Cup, both scheduled to take place in Tanzania.

While some events, like the Senior Challenge Cup and the U-20 Women’s Championship, are currently on hold due to scheduling complexities and financial considerations, the re-establishment of the Women’s Senior Championship represents a significant victory for the sport.

It not only offers a platform for established players to compete at a high level but also serves as a powerful inspiration for young girls and aspiring footballers across East and Central Africa, fostering the next generation of talent.