Kibu dropped from Taifa Stars squad ahead of Chan finals

Dar es Salaam. The Taifa Stars training camp in Ismailia, Egypt, has gained momentum as preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) continue in full swing. Notably, Simba SC attacking midfielder Kibu Dennis has been officially dropped from the squad.

The team’s head coach Hemed “Morocco” Suleiman and his technical bench opted to replace Kibu with 20-year-old attacking midfielder Jammy Suleiman Simba from Kinondoni Municipal Council (KMC FC).

 Jammy has already linked up with the rest of the squad in camp as the team sharpens up for the continental showdown.

Kibu, meanwhile, is currently in the United States for trials. Taifa Stars assistant coach Jamhuri “Julio” Kihwelu confirmed the development, saying that while the team supports Kibu’s pursuit of personal growth, the national team had to continue with players available for the task ahead.

“Kibu is in the U.S. for trials, seeking to advance his career. This is the national team, and it remains open to all committed players — but we cannot afford to wait. We’ve therefore called up Jammy Simba from KMC, and he has joined the camp,” said Kihwelu.

He added that Jammy’s selection is part of a long-term plan.

 “You may ask, ‘why Jammy?’ The answer is straightforward — we’re not just preparing for CHAN. We’re also building the foundation for upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) campaigns, including the one we will host. Jammy and other U-20 players are part of that future.”Kihwelu also reported steady progress in the camp. The team recently played a practice match and claimed a 4-2 victory.  “This is our in-house training phase. We’re combining physical fitness, tactical shaping, and technical refinement.

 We don’t have much time before facing Burkina Faso in our opening match on August 2,” he noted.

Following the Egypt camp — scheduled to conclude on July 19 — Taifa Stars will return to Tanzania for the final leg of their preparations, including additional friendly matches.