Tanzania’s boxing fraternity is in mourning following the death of former national team boxer Alfonce Abeli, who was laid to rest on April 21, 2026, at Vijibweni Cemetery in Kigamboni, Dar es Salaam.
Abeli, a former fighter for JKT Mgulani Boxing Club, passed away on April 20 while being rushed to Lugalo Hospital for medical attention, bringing an abrupt end to a career that had earned him recognition on both local and international stages.
The Tanzania Boxing Federation (BFT) described him as a committed athlete who carried the country’s flag with pride in several competitions.
Speaking on behalf of the federation, Secretary General Makore Mashaga said Abeli had built a reputation for discipline and resilience in the ring.
His last major appearance came during the Africa Zone Three Championships held in Nairobi, Kenya, in October 2025, where he secured a bronze medal one of the highlights of his career.
Following his passing, the federation suspended the National Club Championship matches that had been scheduled for April 21, allowing the boxing community to mourn and pay their respects.
The competition is set to resume on April 22 at the Dar es Salaam Police Academy (DPA), starting in the morning.
Boxers who were due to compete on the suspended day will be accommodated, with the regular programme continuing later in the evening.
Mashaga conveyed condolences to Abeli’s family, friends and the wider boxing community, noting that his death is a significant loss to the sport in Tanzania.
