More than 3,000 young athletes are set to showcase their talent at the 2026 Talent Youth Track and Field Championship, which kicks off tomorrow and runs through March 29 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Organized by the Dar es Salaam Athletics Association (DAA), the championship is designed to identify, nurture, and elevate emerging athletics talent across the region.
DAA Chairman Amani Ngoka said the event plays a key role in building a strong and competitive regional team.
“Our objective is to identify outstanding young athletes who can represent Dar es Salaam at a high level and strengthen our regional team,” Ngoka said.
The competition will feature a wide range of age categories 10–14, 15–17, and 18–22 ensuring inclusive participation and fair competition among different development stages. Each group will compete in a full schedule of track and field events.
According to Ngoka, the championship also serves as a crucial selection platform for athletes who will represent the region at the national championships scheduled for May this year in the Coast Region.
Beyond the competition, the association is implementing a long-term development strategy aimed at sustaining athletic excellence.
This includes establishing dedicated training facilities and working with qualified coaches to help young athletes reach elite performance levels.
Speaking on behalf of the event sponsors, UTT AMIS Marketing Officer Zulfa Hemed reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to youth empowerment through sports.
“Sports offer real career opportunities, and talent development must begin at the grassroots level. By supporting this championship, we are investing in the future of our youth and helping them unlock their full potential,” she said.
The championship is expected to not only highlight emerging stars but also strengthen Tanzania’s athletics pipeline by building a solid foundation for future national and international success.
