Metacha, Chama win awards as Cecafa salutes Times FM

What you need to know:

  • Metacha, whose performances were crucial to Singida’s title-winning run, received his trophy during the official Gala Dinner that marked the end of the competition

Dar es Salaam. Singida Black Stars goalkeeper Metacha Mnata crowned his excellent form at the 2025 Kagame Cup by winning the Best Goalkeeper Award as the curtain fell on the prestigious regional tournament in Dar es Salaam.

Metacha, whose performances were crucial to Singida’s title-winning run, received his trophy during the official Gala Dinner that marked the end of the competition.

Sudanese heavyweights Al Hilal were also among the honorees, picking up the Fair Play Award.

The accolade was presented by Cecafa’s official media partner, Times FM, underscoring the broadcaster’s growing role in raising the visibility of East and Central African football.

The awards night was attended by players, football leaders, and sports stakeholders who witnessed Metacha collect his award from Cecafa’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Andrew Jackson Oryada.

In his address, Oryada hailed the 2025 edition as one of the best-organized in recent years and praised the commitment of sponsors and partners.

He also credited Times FM for amplifying the tournament’s reach, saying: “Times FM, Cecafa’s official radio partner, provided live coverage of every moment on and off the pitch.

This unique access created excitement and elevated the profile of the Kagame Cup.”

Jacob Mbuya, representing Times FM, handed Al Hilal their Fair Play trophy and emphasized the broadcaster’s mission of connecting the game to the people.

“As the official partner, we didn’t miss a single moment. Fans who couldn’t make it to the stadium still experienced the action live through Times FM,” he said.

Mbuya further promised that the station’s dedication would continue beyond the Kagame Cup: “Even after this tournament, we’ll keep delivering 24/7 sports coverage as Tanzania’s only dedicated sports radio station, serving as both a bridge and an engine for community development.” The ceremony also highlighted other standout performers.

Rwanda’s Dao Rouaf Memei was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) after inspiring APR to a third-place finish.

Singida Black Stars’ Zambian playmaker, Clatous Chama, walked away with the Golden Boot after finishing as the top scorer of the tournament.

Meanwhile, Singida’s Argentine tactician Miguel Gamondi was voted Best Coach, capping a memorable campaign that saw him guide his side to a dramatic 2–1 victory over Al Hilal in the final at the KMC Complex.

As champions, Singida Black Stars lifted the Kagame Cup trophy and received a cheque worth Sh25 million from sponsors Betika, a reward that underlined their breakthrough achievement. Rwanda’s APR secured the bronze medal by edging hosts KMC 1–0 in the playoff.

The 2025 Kagame Cup not only delivered quality football but also celebrated the growing professionalism of the game in East and Central Africa, leaving lasting memories for fans and participants alike.