President Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed the government through the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports to develop a special program that will create a supportive environment for athletes after they retire from active sports.
The directive was conveyed by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry and Government Spokesperson, Gerson Msigwa, during a ceremony held to congratulate Tanzania’s veterans’ team that won the championship and trophy in the “World Elders’ Day” tournament held in Kenya.
Msigwa said the government’s intention is to ensure that retired athletes remain part of the nation’s sports development by sharing their technical expertise and mentoring young players.
“It is an undeniable fact that, as a country, we have not done well in supporting the lives of our athletes after retirement. Once they stop playing, their stories often end there,” said Msigwa.
He emphasized that many young athletes face serious challenges once they end their competitive careers.
“Some of them have great talent that grows quickly, but they lack guidance and management. Others don’t need much — just proper mentorship to help them progress,” he noted.
Msigwa said the government aims to see the veterans’ team continue participating in international competitions next year, in collaboration with the National Sports Council (BMT) and Smart, to keep flying the national flag high.
Following the team’s victory in Kenya, President Samia awarded them TSh 5 million in recognition of their achievement.
“When you were about to travel, I informed the President about your international participation. After your return with the trophy, I reminded her, and she was delighted to extend this gesture of appreciation,” Msigwa said.
He urged retired athletes to continue motivating and guiding young players, noting that success in sports requires determination, hard work, and patience.
For her part, the Sports Officer from the National Sports Council, Ingridy Kimario, congratulated the veterans for fulfilling their promise to perform well and bring home the championship.
“The Council will continue to collaborate with the Union of Sports Veterans Tanzania (UMSOTA) to ensure they achieve even greater success,” Kimario said.
UMSOTA Chairperson, Faza Lusozi, thanked President Samia for her continued support and the government’s assistance through the National Sports Council for officially handing over the national flag before their journey.
“We are grateful to President Samia for making our participation possible and for her commitment to supporting retired athletes,” Lusozi said.