The Africa Day Marathon held in Tanzania has been hailed as a powerful platform for promoting tourism, developing sports talent, and strengthening national preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as government leaders and sports stakeholders highlighted the growing importance of sports in driving economic and social development.
The Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda, said the marathon brought together ambassadors, athletes, and key stakeholders, reflecting how sports continue to unite people while opening up wide opportunities for development in the country.
Makonda said the 5km and 10km races were not just sporting competitions, but also a strategic platform for promoting Tanzania’s tourism sector, strengthening international relations, and showcasing investment opportunities.
He added that such events are aligned with Africa’s development agenda and Tanzania’s preparations for AFCON 2027.
He further said Tanzania is increasingly using sports as a tool for national branding, noting that the country continues to attract global attention due to its peace, stability, and hospitality.
During the event, Makonda praised English football legend Rio Ferdinand for promoting Tanzania internationally after visiting and witnessing the country’s environment and opportunities.
He said Ferdinand’s experience in Tanzania had helped strengthen the country’s image abroad.
Makonda added that Ferdinand has expressed interest in supporting the identification of young Tanzanian football talent who could be developed to play in major international clubs. He said this initiative would open new pathways for youth in the sports sector.
He also noted that Ferdinand saw Tanzania as a peaceful and welcoming nation, contrary to some negative narratives shared on social media.
According to Makonda, such positive exposure plays a key role in attracting investors and boosting confidence in the country.
Makonda revealed that through his company, Ferdinand is planning to invest in sports infrastructure in collaboration with the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC).
He also plans to bring former international football stars to Tanzania for special exhibition matches as part of the build-up to AFCON 2027.
The government, he added, is in discussions to construct a modern stadium with a capacity of more than 65,000 spectators, aimed at boosting sports tourism, entertainment, and related business opportunities.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, said Tanzania has continued to record strong progress in sports, including winning medals and qualifying for major international competitions.
He also commended Tanzanian boxer Ibrahim Class for raising the country’s flag high through his success in international boxing competitions under the WBC.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Samwel Shelukindo, said the marathon is part of celebrations marking 63 years of the African Union.
He said the event promotes health, environmental cleanliness, and African unity, while also creating awareness of sports as a source of employment for young people.
He added that sports continue to play a key role in creating jobs and opportunities for youth, while also strengthening Tanzania’s presence on the global stage through successful athletes.
The President of the Athletics Tanzania Federation, Rogath Stephen, said Tanzania’s growing success in athletics is a result of strong cooperation between the government and sports stakeholders, which is helping to improve performance and develop future champions.
In the women’s 10km race, winner Valentine Lazaro said her victory came as a result of disciplined training and preparation.
She encouraged Tanzanians to continue supporting athletes as they represent the country in international competitions.
Boxer Ibrahim Class said athletics and running sports play an important role in building health, stamina, and discipline among sports professionals and young people.
Overall, the Africa Day Marathon was described as more than a sporting event, but a national and continental platform for unity, tourism promotion, talent development, and economic growth, while strengthening Tanzania’s visibility ahead of AFCON 2027.
