The Minister of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, is set to be the guest of honor at the opening of the 7th edition of the “Ladies First” Athletics Competition, scheduled for November 29 at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
The two-day event on November 29 and 30 will be preceded by a seminar for athletes and referees on November 28 at the same venue, aimed at enhancing skills, discipline, and knowledge in sports management.
Speaking to journalists on November 26, 2025, Executive Secretary of the National Sports Council (BMT), Neema Msitha, said all preparations are complete.
She added that the event will host representatives from Japan, JICA, the Tanzania Athletics Federation (AT), and other key institutions.
“Women’s participation in sports is still lower compared to men, despite the government and stakeholders’ efforts to close this gap,” Msitha said.
The competition will feature 155 female athletes from 31 regions of Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, competing in races including 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m, the 4×100m relay, and javelin throw.
In addition to the athletic events, participants will benefit from workshops on menstrual hygiene, financial literacy, and health screenings.
“BMT sincerely thanks retired Colonel and former athlete Jumaa Ikangaa for initiating these competitions in collaboration with the Government of Japan through JICA. These games have become a key platform for discovering female talent, many of whom have gone on to represent Tanzania internationally,” Msitha said.
She encouraged Dar es Salaam residents to attend in large numbers to witness emerging talent and inspire the next generation of female athletes.
Rogath Stephen, President of the Tanzania Athletics Federation, acknowledged challenges in attracting young girls to athletics but noted that recent successes, including emerging athletes like Magdalena Shauru, demonstrate the potential of these programs.
Stephen highlighted that JICA’s support has not only boosted participation but also opened educational opportunities for some athletes.
Founder of the competition, Jumaa Ikangaa, expressed hope that Tanzanian women will continue to shine on the international stage, following in the footsteps of stars like Theresia Dismas.
He also emphasized the critical role of the media in motivating communities and stakeholders to promote female participation in sports.
“Many athletes who have excelled internationally started here. It is now the media’s role to keep inspiring young women to reach their full potential,” Ikangaa said.