Ghanaian midfielder Emmanuel Keyekeh has been granted Tanzanian citizenship, making him eligible to represent the national team, the Taifa Stars.
This development comes less than a year after his move to Tanzania.
The Tanzania Immigration Department confirmed Keyekeh's naturalization in a statement signed by Senior Superintendent Paul Msele. Keyekeh, who currently plays for Tanzanian top-flight side Singida Black Stars, is one of three foreign-based players granted citizenship. The others are Josephat Arthur Bada from Ivory Coast and Muhamed Damaro Camara from Guinea.
"The named players applied for and were granted citizenship in accordance with sections 9 and 23 of the Tanzanian Citizenship Act, Chapter 357," the statement read. "The Immigration Department would like to inform the public that the individuals mentioned are now Tanzanian citizens by naturalization."
Singida Black Stars spokesperson Hussein Masanza emphasized that while the club supported the players through the application process, matters of citizenship are beyond their control. "As a football club, we have no authority to change anyone’s citizenship. The players followed all legal processes and we respected their choice," Masanza stated.
Before moving to Tanzania, Keyekeh played for Karela United and had a brief stint with Asante Kotoko, where he struggled to make an impact. He later joined Samartex, helping the club secure the Ghana Premier League title.
