SINGIDA Black Stars have kicked off a month-long training camp in Arusha to capitalize on the Mainland Premier League's break during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament.

The camp is set to include several friendly matches as the team prepares for the resumption of competitions, including the Mainland Premier League and the Federation Cup, both scheduled to resume on March 1.

The initiative, led by head coach Hamdi Miloud, aims to refine the squad and regain their early-season form. 

Miloud, who joined the team mid-season, is using the break to get familiar with the players and implement his vision for the team.

New signing Jonathan Sowah is expected to join the squad during the camp, alongside Hernest Malonga, who has returned to the team following his loan spell at Coastal Union.

Singida Black Stars’ Information Officer, Hussein Massanza, explained the rationale behind the early camp:
 “It’s true it’s very early to start a training camp given the long league break, but the coach requested it so he can build his squad during this time while other teams are resting. 

“As a result, the team has already started training and will begin their journey to Arusha today (yesterday), for the camp.” 

He further elaborated: "In addition to the team entering the training camp, striker Sowah will also be joining the team in Arusha, ready to start playing. 

“He will be joined by Hernest Malonga, who was on loan at Coastal Union and has now returned to the squad. Malonga will be part of the traveling players."

Coach Miloud highlighted the importance of the camp in developing the team and strengthening their performance: "I've only been here a few days, but I can see this is a team of leaders who really want what's best. The players are fantastic, they've got great skill and they work hard. I've watched some games and seen where we can improve.

"These training sessions will help me get to know everyone, and most importantly, I'll find ways to help them improve as players and achieve great things together."

Miloud has also requested three to four friendly matches during the camp, which are currently being organized.

The team’s recent form has been inconsistent, with five wins, two draws, and three losses in their last 10 matches. 

After a promising start to the season, with seven wins and one draw in their first eight games, Singida Black Stars suffered a 1-0 defeat to Young Africans. 

This loss marked the beginning of a challenging period, with three losses, two draws, and three wins in their subsequent eight matches.

Currently sitting fourth in the Tanzania Mainland Premier League standings, Singida Black Stars have amassed 33 points from 16 matches. 

Coach Miloud’s primary objective during the training camp is to restore the optimism and momentum the team displayed at the start of the season.