The National Sports Council (BMT) has urged the newly elected leaders of the Tanzania Judo Association (JATA) to build on the foundations laid by their predecessors while developing a forward-looking strategy that advances the sport.
The call came from BMT Senior Sports Officer, Charles Maguzu, during a handover ceremony between the outgoing and incoming JATA leadership held at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium Hall in Dar es Salaam.
Maguzu stressed that recognizing the contributions of the previous leadership is crucial for sustainable development.
“The incoming leadership has a responsibility to continue the positive work that has been done, enhance it, and establish plans that will develop judo on strong and sustainable foundations,” he said.
New JATA President, Richard Marton Ndayirukiye, pledged close cooperation with the outgoing leaders and all stakeholders to ensure steady progress in the sport.
One of Ndayirukiye’s key priorities is expanding judo programs in schools, which he said would help nurture young talent early and widen the sport’s reach across Tanzania.
“We believe the success of judo comes from unity. We will continue to collaborate with former leaders and all stakeholders to ensure the sport grows rapidly and on solid foundations,” he added.
The handover ceremony was hailed as a significant milestone in promoting leadership continuity and strengthening the development of judo in the country.