By The Respondent Reporter
Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango has urged Tanzania’s athletes to approach the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, United Kingdom, with discipline, determination, and a sense of national pride, calling on stakeholders to rally behind them in a coordinated and strategic effort.
Speaking yesterday in Dodoma after receiving the Queen’s Baton an iconic symbol of the Commonwealth Games relay Dr. Mpango said Tanzania must compete not just to participate, but to win, inspire and uphold the country’s image on the global stage.
“Our athletes must go to Glasgow as true competitors ready to showcase their talent, discipline and patriotism. They carry the hopes of our nation and deserve our full support,” said Dr. Mpango.
He emphasized that Tanzania's sports ecosystem must invest more in identifying, nurturing and equipping young talent especially among youth if the country is to compete meaningfully in major global competitions.
Dr. Mpango called on all key players government agencies, sports federations, development partners, and the private sector to work together strategically to provide athletes with not only physical resources but also psychological preparation.
“Sport is no longer a leisure activity it is a platform for diplomacy, youth empowerment and national branding. This demands a serious, well-resourced, and united approach,” he added.
Beyond competition, Dr. Mpango highlighted the symbolic significance of the Queen’s Baton Relay, describing it as a powerful representation of unity, shared values, and the spirit of cooperation among Commonwealth nations.
“The Commonwealth Games are not just about sports. They are a celebration of peace, democracy, and sustainable development. Tanzania must embrace this spirit,” he noted.
The Vice President also took the opportunity to underline the baton’s environmental message, which this year advocates for ocean conservation and the fight against marine plastic pollution.
He called on Tanzanians to take personal responsibility in preserving the country’s environment, saying the baton’s message must resonate with local action.
“The arrival of the baton is also a reminder of the urgency to protect our planet. Every citizen, institution and community must play a role in environmental stewardship,” he said.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Mr. Gerson Msigwa, said the government through a joint strategy with the Tanzania Olympic Committee has already begun early preparations to ensure a strong national presence at the 2026 Games.
“There is an opportunity to increase our medal tally significantly. That’s why we are prioritizing early and focused preparations across all sporting disciplines,” said Mr. Msigwa.
He also announced that the government is investing heavily in sports infrastructure, including the ongoing construction of a state-of-the-art training centre in Babati, Manyara Region.
The facility is aimed at supporting Tanzanian athletes preparing for both the Commonwealth and Olympic Games.
“The Babati centre is designed to offer athletes a training environment with weather conditions similar to international host nations giving them a vital competitive edge,” he said.
The Queen’s Baton, which arrived in Tanzania from Cameroon, is now on its way to Ghana as part of its journey across 72 nations and territories ahead of the Glasgow 2026 Games.
As Tanzania prepares for its role in this global sporting festival, the baton’s passage through the country has sparked renewed momentum and renewed responsibility for excellence, unity, and sustainability.