Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila has promised a TZS 50 million cash incentive to Dar City Basketball Team should the side secure a place in the semi-finals of an international tournament in Kigali, Rwanda, in a move aimed at motivating the club to fly Tanzania’s flag high on the regional stage.
Chalamila made the pledge on Tuesday while seeing off the team at Julius Nyerere International Airport Terminal 3 ahead of their departure to Rwanda.
The regional commissioner said Dar City’s participation in the competition reflects the growing stature of Tanzanian basketball and the expanding opportunities for local athletes to compete internationally.
“This team represents the pride of Dar es Salaam and Tanzania at large. We want to see them succeed and inspire more young people to embrace sports,” he said.
Chalamila also urged residents to help identify talented basketball players in their communities and connect them with authorities for further development.
“If there is a young person with basketball talent, bring them to my office so we can help nurture that potential and connect them with experienced players from Dar City,” he noted.
In a broader push to strengthen sports infrastructure, Chalamila directed Dar City Basketball president Hashimu Thabit to organise discussions with district commissioners and municipal directors after the team’s return from Rwanda to explore the establishment of a modern basketball arena in Dar es Salaam.
Observers say the proposal could mark a major milestone in the growth of basketball in the commercial capital, where the sport continues to attract a growing youth following.
Speaking at the send-off ceremony, Ilala District Commissioner Edward Mpogolo described Dar City as a club with international ambitions that has continued to raise Tanzania’s profile in basketball competitions.
He said the team’s achievements demonstrate the potential of Tanzanian sports clubs to compete beyond national borders.
Chalamila also praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan for the government’s increasing investment in sports development, saying the sector has become an important driver of employment, health and economic growth.
“Sports today are not only about entertainment or fitness; they are part of the economy and a platform for empowering young people,” he said.
