Leaders of the Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) have been advised to formally introduce wheelchair basketball in national school sports competitions to promote inclusiveness and create opportunities for students with disabilities.
The advice was directed to the federation’s new leadership under its president, Hasheem Thabeet, urging them to ensure that wheelchair basketball becomes part of the UMITASHUMTA and UMISETA competitions.
The call was made by the Chairperson of the TBF Election Committee, Mohamed Kiganja, who said the move would allow students with disabilities to take part in school sports events which already feature a variety of disciplines.
He noted that many students with disabilities are currently in schools but lack the opportunity to participate in organised basketball competitions.
Kiganja said introducing wheelchair basketball would demonstrate the new leadership’s commitment to developing the sport in an inclusive manner and ensuring that special groups in society are not left behind.
He encouraged the federation to think creatively by securing a number of wheelchairs to support the initiative and then work with partners and stakeholders who can help promote the programme in schools.
According to him, such an initiative would strengthen the federation’s record of achievements and increase Tanzania’s visibility in East Africa in promoting inclusive sports.
Kiganja cited the success of Goalball, a sport played by athletes with visual impairments, which has gained popularity among people with disabilities.
He also advised the TBF Executive Committee to cooperate closely with the National Sports Council (NCS) to obtain guidance and support in advancing the development of basketball in the country.
The proposal is part of wider efforts to ensure sports in Tanzania become more inclusive and provide equal opportunities for all groups in society, including persons with disabilities, to participate and benefit from sporting activities.