By Victoria Godfrey
The President of the Tanzania Boxing Federation (BFT), Lukelo Willilo, has been appointed Chairperson of the Competitions Committee of African Boxing, with effect from February 12, 2026.
African Boxing is a newly formed continental governing body responsible for overseeing Olympic-style boxing across Africa under the umbrella of World Boxing. The federation was established to ensure that Olympic boxing and other international competitions on the continent are conducted in line with internationally recognized standards.
Among its key responsibilities, African Boxing will organize and supervise major competitions, including qualification tournaments for the Los Angeles 2028, the Africa Games – Cairo 2027, and other international boxing events across Africa. Willilo’s appointment is therefore seen as a major milestone, offering Tanzania a strategic opportunity to strengthen its presence and influence in African boxing.
Reacting to the appointment, Willilo said it was a great honor both personally and nationally, describing it as a proud moment for Tanzania to be recognized at the continental and international levels through sport.
He expressed his sincere appreciation to the President of African Boxing, Solomon Kargbo, and the federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in him by entrusting him with the role. Willilo reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the development of boxing across the African continent.
“One of my key objectives is to identify and nurture young boxing talent while ensuring that all competitions are organized with transparency, professionalism, and the highest technical standards,” he said.
Sports stakeholders have described the appointment as a rare and valuable opportunity for Tanzania to further consolidate its standing in African boxing and contribute meaningfully to the sport’s growth on the continent.
