Steve Barker Takes Simba SC Helm on Two-Year Deal

The ex‑Stellenbosch boss enters a role defined by CAF progress plus the Yanga rivalry.

Overview

Stellenbosch CEO Rob Benadie confirmed Barker’s exit and praised his eight-year tenure, citing promotions, a cup title and continental progress.
Local reports indicate Barker is expected to land in Dar es Salaam shortly after Christmas with authority to begin immediately.
On arrival, he is set to work initially with the existing technical bench under Matola while broader staffing decisions are assessed.
Former Simba coach Dylan Kerr said beating arch‑rival Yanga is the key early test that can ease supporter pressure and cement credibility.
Simba last won the league in 2021 and opened their CAF Champions League group with two defeats, underscoring the scale of Barker’s task, while Gavin Hunt is reported as the frontrunner to replace him at Stellenbosch.