The Tanzania Table Tennis Association (TTTA), in collaboration with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), is set to organize a two-week intensive training camp for youth under the ages of 13 and 17. The camp will be held in Dar es Salaam starting June 15 this year.
This special training program, which takes place every two years, aims to enhance the skills of young players and provide them with equipment and development support particularly those from schools across the country.
Speaking to The Respondent Online, Yahya Mungilwa, Chairman of TTTA’s Technical Committee, said the initiative targets school-aged players from all regions of Tanzania. Several coaches are already actively identifying and nurturing emerging talent.
“This camp is especially important for our U17 players as they prepare to represent the country at the African Schools Championship, scheduled for August this year in Algeria,” said Mungilwa.
He added that the camp is part of the national team’s preparation for international competition and aligns with TTTA’s broader strategic plans to develop young athletes before officially presenting them to the Tanzania Olympic Committee and government bodies.
Mungilwa also noted that the players’ abilities have already been assessed during the recently concluded "Young Shine Open 2025" tournament.
Looking ahead, TTTA is also planning a memorial tournament in July to honor Mtalaso, the pioneer of table tennis in Tanzania.
The event will feature participation from several countries that have supported Mtalaso’s legacy and contributions to the sport.
“This tournament will provide our players with the opportunity to measure their progress against international opponents and further prepare them for upcoming global challenges,” Mungilwa concluded.
