Tanzania's Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Minister Paul Makonda has raised questions about the terms of the contract between the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and Sandaland Fashion Wear Limited, the manufacturer of the national team's jerseys. Makonda's concerns have sparked a dispute over the deal, which was signed in 2023 and is set to run until 2028. The minister's queries focus on the financial, commercial, and technical terms of the agreement.
The dispute began when Makonda publicly questioned the newly launched jerseys on September 16, stating that they were not recognized by his ministry. He also expressed concerns over the use of Deputy Minister Hamis Mohamed Mwinjuma in promotional material without his office being informed. Sandaland responded by asserting that it has a valid agreement with TFF to manufacture and supply the national team's jerseys.
Sandaland's lawyers, led by advocate Cletus Nziku, have demanded an apology from Makonda and threatened legal action over remarks they claim have damaged the company's reputation and commercial interests. Nziku challenged Makonda's standing to question the agreement, citing the principle of privity of contract, which holds that a person who is not a party to a contract cannot unilaterally determine its validity.
Makonda's ministry stated on September 18 that it did not recognize the newly advertised kits because the process of changing them had not involved the ministry, despite directives issued by Makonda in February. The ministry also announced that a committee would examine the jersey-supply contract and assess its benefits to the national teams and the country.
The 22 questions raised by Makonda focus on various aspects of the agreement, including the determination of the Sh1.5 billion sponsorship fee, the commercial rights granted to Sandaland, and the company's description as a "Supplier" despite appearing to have sponsorship and commercial rights. Makonda also seeks clarification on the technical specifications of the jerseys, including where the required specifications are documented and who tested the finished products.
The contract between TFF and Sandaland, which began on July 1, 2023, provides for a sponsorship fee of Sh1.5 billion, while Sandaland is required to provide equipment worth Sh300 million annually. Makonda's questions also cover VAT, payment schedules, additional orders, merchandising rights, and the value of commercial opportunities granted to Sandaland.
The dispute is set to be tested through legal and contractual processes, with Sandaland maintaining that its agreement with TFF remains valid and has been properly implemented. The issue has moved beyond the appearance of Taifa Stars' jerseys, with Makonda questioning the contract's structure and implementation.
Key points
- The dispute centers on the terms of the contract between TFF and Sandaland Fashion Wear Limited.
- Makonda's questions focus on financial, commercial, and technical terms of the agreement.
- The contract's validity and implementation are set to be tested through legal and contractual processes.
