The Government of Tanzania has allocated TZS 450 billion to the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports for the construction of a modern sports and arts arena in Kawe, Dar es Salaam.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has already secured the funding as part of her broader vision to invest in the sports and creative sectors, aimed at nurturing young talent and promoting Tanzania as a hub for regional and international sporting events.
Speaking after the conclusion of the “Mama Knockout” boxing tournament held at Posta Grounds in Kijitonyama, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary and Government Spokesperson, Gerson Msigwa, confirmed that a feasibility study for the Kawe project is already underway.
“The Kawe arena will host a wide range of indoor sports, including boxing, basketball, volleyball, netball, handball, and many others,” said Msigwa.
“Once the feasibility study is completed, we expect construction to begin either within this financial year or the next.”he added
He added that the government is also planning to construct a modern gym in Manyara Region to serve as a national training facility for athletes preparing for international competitions.
The facility will host boxers and other athletes under the supervision of national coaches.
Beyond the Kawe project, Msigwa revealed plans to build a Film Village and upgrade sports infrastructure in several regions, including Dodoma and Arusha.
“In line with Tanzania’s Vision 2050, President Samia is determined to ensure that every region has a modern indoor sports centre. This is part of her commitment to advancing sports and arts for national development,” he said.
Turning to boxing, Msigwa applauded the success of the “Mama Knockout” tournament, which attracted fighters from Pakistan, Venezuela, Ghana, Uganda, and India, describing it as a major milestone for Tanzanian sports.
He added that President Samia has expressed her continued support for boxing by introducing cash prizes TZS 10 million for winners by knockout (KO) and TZS 5 million for those winning by points.
“The President has directed the ministry to create a strong environment for boxing in Tanzania. She has been a passionate advocate for improving the sport and empowering athletes,” Msigwa noted.
Mafia Boxing Promotion manager Anathol Wannah hailed the event as a complete success. “We are proud of the results most of our boxers won their bouts, with only three losing. As promoters, we believe in investing in our fighters, and preparations are already underway for another major fight next month in Dar es Salaam,” he said.
Boxer Yusuph Changalawe, who won the PST championship belt, expressed joy despite sustaining a hand injury during the fight.
“My opponent was strong, but I fought hard to ensure the belt stays in Tanzania. I thank my superiors in the armed forces for allowing me to participate,” he said.
Other winners included Abdulrahman Magoma, Iddi Pialali, and Salmin Kassim in title fights, while Juma Choki triumphed in a non-title bout.