By Victoria Godfrey
The Tanzania Boxing Federation (BFT) has said that visa delays prevented the women’s national team from competing in the ongoing African Championship in Serbia.
Speaking to The Respondent Online, BFT Secretary-General Makore Mashaga said all preparations were completed, but the team’s passports are still at the Serbian Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya.
“Our plans were set, but the visa approval process caused delays. Many African countries faced the same challenge, and only nine teams managed to participate,” Mashaga said.
“With the tournament already underway and our matches scheduled for March 9, 10, and 11, getting visas now wouldn’t help. We are now focusing on future competitions,” he added.
Tanzania was set to send five boxers, with the government pledging to cover their flight costs.