Francis Baraza: Why Ex-Harambee Stars Defender Chose Tanzania Over Kenya

Tanzania Premier League side Pamba Jiji FC will camp in Kenya for pre-season preparations with newly appointed head coach Francis Baraza setting up an intensive schedule that includes high-profile friendlies against FKF Premier League outfits.

The Mwanza-based club will spend several weeks in Kenya, facing off with Shabana FC in Kisii, Kakamega Homeboyz, and a number of Nairobi-based teams as they gear up for the upcoming Tanzanian league season.

“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.

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Baraza, who parted ways with Kakamega Homeboyz just days ago, was unveiled as Pamba Jiji’s new head coach on Wednesday.

He brings a wealth of experience from his previous tenures in the Tanzanian league, having helped clubs like Biashara United, Kagera Sugar, and Dodoma Jiji avoid relegation.

The seasoned CAF-licensed tactician is no stranger to Tanzanian football, and his move back to the league feels more like a homecoming. His new role at Pamba Jiji also sees him reuniting with former Shabana striker Mathew Tegisi, who joined the club in January.

“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.

Pamba Jiji, who finished 11th last season, are hoping the experienced Kenyan can guide them to a stronger finish.

Baraza’s knowledge of the Tanzanian football landscape is expected to be a significant advantage as they face giants like Yanga SC, Simba SC, Azam FC, and Singida Stars.

Baraza was candid about why he prefers working in Tanzania, emphasizing the professional environment and trust given to coaches.

“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 also criticized the state of football administration in Kenya, calling for a learning curve from their Tanzanian counterparts.

According to Baraza, Tanzania’s league infrastructure and football culture are miles ahead.

“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.

Baraza is particularly excited about going toe-to-toe with the league’s powerhouses once again.

“I have faced those teams before, and the encounters are always exciting. I look forward to the games against Yanga and Simba,” he said.

His move to Pamba Jiji means he now joins fellow Kenyan coach David Ouma in the Tanzanian Premier League. Ouma, who handles Singida Black Stars, guided them to an impressive fourth-place finish last season.