Tanzanian Premier League side Pamba Jiji FC has chosen Kenya as the base for their pre-season preparations, with newly appointed head coach Francis Baraza outlining a rigorous schedule that includes friendly matches against top-tier Kenyan clubs.
The team from Mwanza will spend several weeks in the country, playing against Shabana FC in Kisii, Kakamega Homeboyz, and various Nairobi-based sides as part of their warm-up for the new Tanzanian league campaign.
“We shall be in Kenya for a couple of weeks to prepare for the upcoming season. We have lined up exciting friendly games against Kenya Premier League teams,” said Baraza as per The Star.
Baraza, who was only recently separated from Kakamega Homeboyz, was officially named Pamba Jiji’s head coach on Wednesday, July 23.
With a solid resume that includes stints at Biashara United, Kagera Sugar, and Dodoma Jiji—where he played a pivotal role in helping them stave off relegation—Baraza brings deep familiarity with Tanzanian football.
The CAF-licensed coach’s return to the Tanzanian league feels like a natural fit, and he will reunite with forward Mathew Tegisi, formerly of Shabana FC, who joined Pamba Jiji earlier in the year.
“I want to thank the management of Kakamega Homeboyz for allowing me to join Pamba Jiji. I have heard a good relationship with the management, the players, and other stakeholders,” said Baraza.
After finishing 11th last season, Pamba Jiji will be banking on Baraza’s expertise to improve their fortunes in the highly competitive league.
His extensive understanding of the Tanzanian football scene is seen as a key asset, especially as the club prepares to face established sides like Simba SC, Yanga SC, Azam FC, and Singida Stars.
Baraza explained his preference for working in Tanzania, citing better treatment and professionalism in comparison to what is often experienced back home in Kenya.
“The Tanzanians know how to treat coaches. They give us a free hand to do our work, and the working conditions are better than here at home. It’s always a refreshing challenge to work in Tanzania,” he remarked.
He didn’t hold back in critiquing Kenyan football management, suggesting that the local game could benefit by learning from the more advanced systems in place in Tanzania.
“In my analysis, the Tanzanian Premier League is about fifth or sixth ranked in Africa. The league also attracts the best players and coaches from the continent,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Baraza is particularly motivated by the chance to compete against Tanzania’s elite clubs once more.
“I have faced those teams before, and the encounters are always exciting. I look forward to the games against Yanga and Simba,” he said.