Sarungi's Impact on Simba, Yanga, and Taifa Stars Remembered
Dalali pays tribute to Sarungi for his contributions to Simba, Yanga, and Taifa Stars.
Dalali Reflects on Sarungi's Significant Contribution to Tanzanian Football
Dar es Salaam – Hassan Dalali, the former chairman of Simba SC, has paid tribute to the late Professor Philemon Sarungi, a veteran politician and former health minister, highlighting his pivotal role in the growth of football in Tanzania. Dalali emphasized that Sarungi's contributions were invaluable, not only to the Simba and Yanga teams but also to the national football scene, including the Taifa Stars.
Sarungi, who passed away at the age of 89 on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at his Oysterbay home in Dar es Salaam, had a significant impact on Tanzanian football. He served as the Minister for Health from 1990 to 1992 and was a passionate supporter of Simba SC. Dalali, who worked closely with Sarungi over the years, shared how the late professor assisted players, especially those facing bone-related health challenges.
"Sarungi was instrumental in resolving various issues within the Simba club from 1996 to 2005, as he served as the Chairman of the Simba Advisory Board. His work was not only limited to Simba but also extended to helping players from both Yanga and the Taifa Stars with their medical needs," Dalali recounted. "His involvement in treating players for bone ailments, often through voluntary efforts, made him an unforgettable figure in Tanzanian football."
Dalali also reflected on Sarungi's leadership in the 2006 restructuring of Simba, where a temporary committee was formed under Michael Wambura's chairmanship, with Dalali serving as a member. After a year of interim leadership, Dalali took over the reins of Simba from 2007 to 2010, witnessing firsthand Sarungi's enduring contributions to both the team's success and the well-being of Tanzanian footballers.
"Sarungi's legacy is defined not only by his wisdom and generosity but also by the respect he earned, both inside and outside Simba. His contributions will be remembered as a significant part of the country's football history," Dalali concluded.
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