Veteran boxer Seleman Kidunda has called on the Tanzania Boxing Federation (BFT) to prioritize investment in youth under the age of 18 as a strategic move to develop a strong future national boxing team.
Speaking to The Respondent Online during the ongoing National Open Boxing Championship in Dar es Salaam, Kidunda emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent early.
“These young athletes form the foundation of tomorrow’s champions,” said Kidunda. “In my view, BFT should use tournaments like this to involve U18 boxers and focus on their development, rather than relying on older athletes in their 30s.”he added
Kidunda believes early exposure and consistent training are key to producing world-class competitors. He also urged the federation to widen its scouting efforts by organizing district-level tournaments to identify promising boxers from across the country.
“There is incredible talent in our neighborhoods many of us came from those very streets. Today, we’re recognized boxers because someone believed in our potential,” he said.
“If you bring together boxers from every district, you’ll create fierce competition and uncover hidden talent.”he added
Kidunda’s remarks come at a time when Tanzanian boxing is seeking new strategies to elevate its presence on the international stage.
His appeal highlights the need for structured grassroots programs and long-term investment in youth development.
