JKT Queens U17 Captain Lidya Kabambo: On the Path to Success in Tanzania

Lidya Kabambo, captain of "JKT Queens U17", leads in CAF U17 GIFT tournament with dreams of the finals and global support.

Lidya Kabambo, captain of "JKT Queens U17", is making her dreams come true by representing her club at the CAF U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament (GIFT) in Dar es Salaam, where she will meet fellow Tanzanian club "TDS Girls" in Saturday's final.

Kabambo has been a standout performer as her side claimed a full set of three victories in Group A, moving close to the inaugural CAF U17 GIFT title. She has learned much in her short career to date, including playing for the senior side of "JKT Queens".

"I loved soccer from the age of 9 or 10 and started playing then," Kabambo said. "I realized I had talent and worked hard to improve my career prospects. As you know, soccer has become a job you can improve your financial standing, and my passion and dedication led me to "JKT Queens" after they spotted my potential."

Kabambo says her passion for the game comes from playing rather than any role model. "I wasn't influenced by anyone to play soccer, but when I saw boys playing, I started to play, and I knew I had the talent. I am very thankful to my mother for the support she gave me. I am hardworking and will keep giving it my all until I achieve my dreams," she said.

She has managed to balance her passion for the game with her studies. "I was able to manage school and playing soccer because I used to practice in the evening at 5 p.m. after finishing my school schedule. There wasn't much overlap," noted Kabambo.

Kabambo also plays for the senior team of "JKT Queens", which participates in the Tanzanian Women's Premier League. "At first, it was tough because I played with experienced and pro players, but now it's easier. They give me energy and confidence. I am now using that experience to lead the "JKT Queens U17," she said.

Kabambo expresses her ambition to one day play in the CAF Women’s Champions League finals, where "JKT Queens" competed in 2023. "My goals are to win Tanzania's Women's Premier League and also the CAF Women’s Champions League with "JKT Queens". I also invite Tanzanians to keep supporting us because we aim to participate in the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup," she added.

The groundbreaking CAF U17 GIFT tournament is part of the ongoing Women's Football Development strategy and was introduced as a pilot in the CECAFA region to broaden the football landscape on the continent and promote new talent. The tournament is streamed live on CAF's YouTube, CAF TV, with updates on its digital platforms under the hashtag #U17GIFT2025.