Yanga SC has officially launched its members’ branch in Botswana, a move aimed at strengthening ties among club members living outside Tanzania and giving them greater opportunities to actively participate in the affairs of their club.
The launch ceremony was held in Gaborone and attended by Yanga President Eng. Hersi Said, Vice President Arafat Haji, the club’s Director of Marketing and Membership, along with other club officials.
Speaking at the ceremony, Hersi said the branch has 63 active members, significantly exceeding the minimum requirement of 20 members for a branch to receive official approval under the club’s constitution.
“This means that with this number, we could establish three branches, and all of them would meet the requirements for official approval,” Hersi said, while congratulating Yanga members in Botswana.
Yanga Prepare for Champions League
The launch comes as Yanga are in Botswana for their 2026/27 CAF Champions League preliminary-round match against Cameroon United in Gaborone.
Hersi said the club has made good preparations for the encounter, stressing that Yanga did not travel to Botswana by chance.
He explained that squad recruitment, team preparations, the technical bench, as well as support from sponsors, members and fans, are among the factors giving the club confidence of performing well.
“We did not come here casually. We have made good signings, had good preparations and have a strong technical staff,” he said.
Yanga Gives Update on Kariakoo Development Project
In his speech, Hersi also discussed the progress of the club’s development projects, including plans to upgrade Yanga’s building in Kariakoo.
He said the club has decided to seek an investor to develop the property because of the significant commercial opportunities available in Kariakoo.
According to Hersi, after the completion of the designs, Bills of Quantities (BOQs) and other technical procedures, 16 companies submitted proposals for the construction tender, which are currently being evaluated.
He said the club expects to announce the successful bidder soon, with the project planned as a mixed-use development featuring shops, storage facilities, commercial spaces and accommodation.
Hersi said financial institutions have already expressed interest in supporting the project, which forms part of the strategy to make Yanga a club with strong assets and a solid economic foundation for future generations.
Stadium Project Progress
Regarding the construction of the club’s stadium, Hersi said the process is progressing well and that the club is currently completing the necessary legal procedures.
He said members had already approved the use of the land for the project during the General Assembly, while the necessary documents and supporting evidence have been submitted to the relevant authorities for the next steps.
Hersi also confirmed that a company to oversee ownership of the stadium has already been established, involving Yanga and its investor, GSM Group.
The company will officially begin operations once the required approvals are obtained, with the next major step being the announcement of a tender to select the contractor for the construction.
Hersi stressed that the club will continue to follow proper procedures in implementing its projects, saying stability and careful planning are the foundation for the success of the transformation taking place at Yanga.
The launch of the Botswana branch further expands Yanga’s membership network outside Tanzania, as the club continues its efforts to build a competitive team alongside a strong commercial and infrastructure foundation.
