Newly elected leaders of the Tanzania Professional Boxing Referees Organization (ATPBRO) have been called upon to roll up their sleeves and work diligently to uplift the sport of professional boxing in the country.
The call was made by Charles Maguzu, Chairperson of the Electoral Committee from the National Sports Council (BMT), shortly after the organization held its general elections at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Maguzu emphasized that developing the sport requires a collaborative ecosystem of sponsors, referees, boxers, and responsible leadership.
“For boxing to progress, sponsors must be engaged with transparency whenever they offer support. Referees must uphold integrity and fairness in the ring. You, the elected leaders, must offer guidance and direction. Boxers are ready in the ring, but they need leadership that propels them forward,” said Maguzu.
He advised the new executive to thoroughly review the ATPBRO constitution to understand the scope of their roles and avoid internal conflicts that have plagued many sports associations in Tanzania.
“Each leader should study the constitution to fully grasp their mandate. If there are outdated clauses or gaps, revise them to align with the current realities. Regarding promoters, monitor them closely. Ensure they fulfill contractual obligations and pay boxers on time. Any who fail to do so should be reported to BMT for disciplinary action,” he added.
For his part, newly elected ATPBRO Chairman Bosco Luhwavi pledged to act on the advice, stating that his leadership will focus on healing and reform.
“We are not here to retaliate for past wrongs. Our aim is to fix what was broken and move forward with unity and purpose,” said Luhwavi.
The election saw Mkwayu Ramadhani Juma chosen as Vice Chairman, while Kulwa Bakari Makalanga was elected Secretary-General.
Members elected to the Executive Committee include Modest Rashid, Theresia Kapinga, and Mwinyimkuu Rajabu.
The incoming leadership now faces the task of restoring credibility and professionalism in the ranks of Tanzania’s boxing officiating body, with the hopes of strengthening the sport nationally and internationally.