The Government of the Sixth Phase under President Samia Suluhu Hassan has continued to implement major reforms in the sports sector, driven by increased investment in infrastructure, expansion of the development budget, and improved performance of national teams and clubs in international competitions.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba said this on Monday night in Dar es Salaam during the National Sports Council (NSC) Awards ceremony, where sports personalities who have contributed to promoting Tanzania internationally were recognised and honoured.
Dr. Nchemba said the government’s continued increase in sports funding reflects its recognition of the sector as a key driver of economic growth, youth empowerment, and job creation.
He said the government has strengthened the sector by increasing the development budget, establishing a dedicated sports development fund, and investing heavily in modern sports infrastructure across the country.
He highlighted major achievements including the rehabilitation of Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and Amaan Stadium, as well as the construction of new sports facilities in Arusha and Dodoma regions, saying these developments have raised the standards of sports infrastructure in the country.
According to him, Tanzanian teams and clubs have also shown remarkable improvement in international competitions, where they are now able to compete strongly against established African sides.
He said the growing performance has changed perceptions about Tanzanian football and other sports disciplines, noting that local clubs are now respected by opponents across the continent.
Dr. Nchemba further called for stronger collaboration between government institutions to ensure the continued growth of the sports sector.
He urged the Ministry of Lands to safeguard open spaces for sports activities, the Ministry of Industry and Trade to attract more sponsors and private sector investment, and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism to integrate sports into efforts to promote Tanzania’s tourism attractions.
On his part, Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Paul Makonda said the government has allocated more than Sh525 billion for the sports sector, with a significant portion directed towards development projects, infrastructure expansion, and youth talent development.
He said the government is also working to revive the Taifa Cup competition, which will play a key role in identifying and nurturing young talent from grassroots levels, starting from wards up to the national stage.
Makonda added that the ministry has already identified a shortage of sports teachers, coaches, and referees, and is developing training and capacity-building programmes to strengthen human resources in the sector.
The Executive Secretary of the National Sports Council, Neema Msitha, said the awards were reintroduced in 2022 after a 40-year break, with the aim of recognising individuals who have contributed significantly to promoting Tanzania through sports on the international stage.
She said this year’s awards introduced a new category for outstanding sports journalists, acknowledging their vital role in informing the public, promoting sports development, and supporting national efforts to grow the sector.
