The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) has hailed marathoner Sergeant Taji Alphonce Simbu for his gold medal victory at the 2025 World Championships, pledging to work more closely with him in promoting the country’s national parks through athletics.
Speaking at TANAPA headquarters in Arusha yesterday, Commissioner of Conservation CPA Musa Nassoro Kuji described Simbu’s triumph in Japan earlier this month as a milestone not only for sports but also for Tanzania’s global visibility.
“We congratulate you, Simbu, for flying the national flag so high. This victory goes beyond sport it is a powerful showcase of Tanzania to the world,” he said.
Commissioner Kuji reiterated TANAPA’s readiness to continue supporting athletes as part of its drive to expand sports tourism in the country’s protected areas.
Simbu, who arrived in Arusha on September 29 to a heroic welcome, thanked TANAPA for the recognition.
“I am deeply grateful for the reception and the honour accorded to me. I promise to work with TANAPA in raising Tanzania’s flag and promoting our national parks through athletics,” he said.
He noted with pride that TANAPA provided him with the same vehicle used by President Samia Suluhu Hassan during the filming of Tanzania: The Royal Tour.
The Tanzania Athletics Association (RT) President Roghath Akhwari also applauded TANAPA for linking conservation with sports promotion.
“I commend TANAPA for conserving our heritage and supporting tourism. Let us continue to strengthen sports tourism,” he said.
During the ceremony, Simbu received a TSh10 million cheque, a framed image of a cheetah, a backpack and branded TANAPA attire as tokens of recognition.
The athletics federation also presented an honorary certificate to Commissioner Kuji, acknowledging TANAPA’s sponsorship of athletes since 2016.
