Young Africans (Yanga) and the Zanzibar Football Federation (ZFF) are mourning the death of Mama Fatma Karume, who died at the age of 97. She was the widow of Zanzibar's first President, Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume. Mama Fatma was also a member of Yanga's Board of Trustees and will be buried at Mbweni Cemetery in Zanzibar. Her burial ceremony is scheduled to begin at 4pm. Yanga described her death as a major loss to the club.
Yanga president Eng Hersi Said said the club had lost a leader whose wisdom, commitment, and love for the club had contributed to its development over the years. He described Mama Fatma as a great leader with wisdom, knowledge, and great love for Yanga. Eng Hersi said she would be remembered particularly for her contribution towards the acquisition of the land on which Yanga's headquarters at Jangwani, Dar es Salaam, were built.
Mama Fatma's association with Yanga was deeply rooted, with the club considering her not only a trustee but also a respected elder whose relationship with the institution went beyond football. Her connection with football also reflected the sporting interests associated with the Karume family. Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, who served as Zanzibar's first President, was known for his interest in sport, with his era associated with efforts to develop sporting facilities in Zanzibar.
ZFF secretary general Hussein Ahmada Vuai said Mama Fatma was among the people who played an important role in supporting the development of sport in Zanzibar. According to Vuai, she contributed to the development of sport and remained a passionate football follower in Zanzibar. He said that, besides Yanga, she was a strong supporter of Kikwajuni and other clubs on the Isles.
Yanga, in its message of condolence, extended sympathy to the Karume family, relatives, friends, and the wider sports fraternity, saying her contribution to the club would remain part of its history. The club regarded her as one of its important figures and a long-standing supporter. Mama Fatma's passion for the sport was not limited to Yanga, as she supported various clubs in Zanzibar.
The ZFF also mourned the loss of Mama Fatma, describing her as a respected figure who supported sport and followed football with interest. Her death marks a significant loss for the sports fraternity in Zanzibar. The ZFF and Yanga have lost a leader who contributed to the development of sport in the region.
Mama Fatma Karume's legacy will be remembered in the sports sector, particularly in Zanzibar and Tanzania. Her contribution to Yanga and the development of sport in Zanzibar will remain part of history. The sports fraternity has lost a respected figure and a passionate supporter of football.
Key points
- Yanga and ZFF mourn Mama Fatma Karume's death at 97.
- Mama Fatma contributed to Yanga's development and land acquisition.
- She was a respected figure in Zanzibar's sports sector.
