Regions across Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar have been called upon to step up efforts to prepare competitive women athletes ahead of the seventh edition of the Ladies First Championships, scheduled for November 28–30 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
As part of the build-up, a special seminar for referees and technical officials will be held on November 27 at the stadium’s conference hall, aimed at sharpening officiating skills and ensuring high standards during the competition.
Najaha Bakari, Public Relations and Communications Officer at the National Sports Council (BMT), said the annual event plays a crucial role in boosting women’s participation in athletics and nurturing new talent capable of representing Tanzania on international stages.
She confirmed that invitation letters have already been dispatched to Regional Sports Officers and Regional Administrative Officers across Mainland Tanzania, while Zanzibar’s participation is being coordinated through the Zanzibar National Sports Council (BMTZ).
“Regions are currently conducting their preliminary competitions to select representatives. We are confident that this year’s edition will be even stronger and help us achieve our development goals,” Najaha said.
She emphasized the proud history of Tanzanian women in athletics, noting that the country’s first international medal was won by Theresia Dismas long before male athletes such as Alphonce Simbu made their mark.
“Athletics has consistently brought honour to our nation. We will continue encouraging more women to train and compete so we can build on the successes we already have,” she added.
This year’s Ladies First Championships are expected to feature a wide lineup of events, including the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m and 10,000m races, relay events, as well as discus, shot put and javelin competitions.
