TANZANIA Prisons FC are preparing to host Simba SC at the Jamhuri Stadium in Dodoma following the Tanzania Football Federation’s (TFF) decision to ban Sokoine Stadium in Mbeya.

On February 14, 2026, the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) announced the immediate closure of Sokoine Stadium after it failed to meet legal requirements stipulated under club licensing regulations. The decision came shortly after Prisons secured a thrilling 3–2 Mainland Premier League victory over Namungo at the same venue.

With the ban now in effect, Prisons are expected to shift their upcoming fixtures to the Jamhuri Stadium. The Mainland Premier League clash against Simba is scheduled for February 22, 2026. In addition, the club has confirmed that their Federation Cup (FA Cup) encounter against Moro Kids will also be played at the Dodoma venue on February 19, 2026.

Club Chief Executive Officer Godfrey Madegwa said that while a final decision on logistics is still being finalized, the club is following internal procedures and consulting with its headquarters to ensure a smooth transition.

“We recognize that the upcoming fixture will be a difficult challenge, but it is of vital importance to us. The leadership is working diligently to ensure all administrative matters are in order so we can build on the momentum of our recent victory over Namungo,” Madegwa said.

He emphasized that rewarding players after victories remains part of the club’s culture.

“At Prisons, it is standard practice to provide bonuses following a win. Given our recent struggles, every match is now a critical battle for three points. We view our Federation Cup tie against Moro Kids as the perfect litmus test before facing Simba,” he added.

The recent 3–2 triumph has significantly boosted morale within the squad. After a prolonged winless run that piled pressure on both players and technical staff, the victory has eased tension and allowed the team to refocus ahead of their temporary relocation to Dodoma.

Madegwa also addressed speculation surrounding head coach Otieno’s future.

“Regarding coach Otieno, no final decision has been made. He remains under contract, and any move to part ways would require mutual agreement in line with procedures governing foreign coaches. For now, he continues with the team in camp as the registration committee deliberates,” he explained.

The upcoming encounter presents a stern test for Prisons. Simba enter the fixture with a strong historical edge, having completed a dominant double over Prisons last season with a 4–0 aggregate score.

In the current standings, Simba sit seventh with 19 points from eight matches, while Tanzania Prisons are placed 14th with 12 points from 13 games. Despite the gap in position and points, Prisons will take confidence from their recent win, which has revitalized belief within the camp.

As the team prepares for life away from Mbeya, the Dodoma fixtures could prove decisive — not only in determining their league trajectory but also in shaping the broader narrative of their season.