In preparation for the upcoming national school sports competitions, UMISSETA (Primary Schools Sports) and UMITASHUMTA (Secondary Schools Sports), Mr. Atupele Mwambene, the Deputy Secretary General of the Office of the President, Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), visited Iringa Region on March 15, 2025.
His visit was aimed at assessing the readiness of sports fields and accommodation facilities that will host the events, scheduled from June 8 to July 4, 2025.
During his inspection, Mr. Mwambene expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing preparations, praising the collaborative efforts of local government authorities, educational institutions, and other stakeholders.
He emphasized that the event’s success relies heavily on teamwork and effective coordination.
“I am pleased with the level of preparedness I have seen here in Iringa. The cooperation between the regional authorities, educational institutions, and other stakeholders is commendable,” Mr. Mwambene stated.
“These competitions will serve as an excellent platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and talents, and I am confident that Iringa is fully ready to host them.”
Among the facilities visited by Mr. Mwambene were the Iringa Girls' School, Kreluu Secondary School, and Kreluu Teacher Training College.
These institutions will serve as both competition venues and accommodation centers for participants. He also visited Kichangani Field and Lugalo Secondary School, additional sites designated for various sporting events during the competitions.
“I am impressed with the state of the facilities here. It is clear that a lot of work has been put into preparing them for these competitions,” Mr. Mwambene remarked after visiting the schools and sports grounds. “These are the kind of facilities that will allow our students to compete at the highest level.”
In addition to inspecting the sports grounds, Mr. Mwambene also reviewed the arrangements for accommodation and transportation, ensuring that the needs of students, coaches, and officials will be met.
“It is crucial that we provide a safe and comfortable environment for everyone involved. I am confident that the arrangements made so far will ensure that all participants feel well-cared for throughout the event,” he added.
The UMISSETA and UMITASHUMTA competitions are anticipated to be a major event in Tanzania’s education calendar, giving students an opportunity not only to compete in various sports but also to develop valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and leadership.
Mr. Mwambene underscored the importance of sports in schools, noting that they play a vital role in fostering well-rounded individuals.
“These competitions are more than just about winning medals. They provide our students with the opportunity to grow as individuals, learn the importance of teamwork, and gain leadership skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives,” he concluded.
With the competitions just a few months away, Mr. Mwambene’s visit has reassured all stakeholders that Iringa is well-prepared to host this significant event.
His positive assessment of the facilities and preparations reflects the region's commitment to ensuring a successful and memorable national event.