The Tanzania Swimming Association (TSA) has urged all competition organizers to engage referees and officials officially recognized by the association to ensure professionalism and athlete safety.
TSA Chairman David Mwasyoge made the call during an officials’ clinic held on February 28, 2026, at the new library hall of the University of Dar es Salaam.
Chairman Mwasyoge stressed that all swimming competitions must receive TSA approval. This ensures the presence of certified officials and helps reduce safety risks for participants.
“Using recognized officials is crucial for minimizing safety challenges during competitions,” he said.
He explained that TSA is currently registering officials in a comprehensive database, which will track the number of referees and their qualifications. The initiative is aimed at strengthening the sport’s management and governance.
Mwasyoge added that the database will also support collaboration with international swimming bodies, including African federations, to provide advanced training for referees at the global level.
He highlighted TSA’s ongoing focus on safety education to prevent drowning incidents and ensure proper first aid services are available during events.
The association is also working with key stakeholders, including Prime Arts Agency, to promote the development of swimming in Tanzania.
Prime Sports Agency Planning Director Jeremiah Keema said that 50 referees from Tanzania and abroad have benefited from the training programs.
“The high turnout reflects the growing commitment to strengthen and promote swimming in the country,” he said.
Keema also commended the women who participated in the clinic, noting that several have set national records as referees. He encouraged them to continue improving their skills to officiate at the international level across Africa.