The National Judo Club Championships are scheduled to take place from May 30 to 31 in Dar es Salaam, as confirmed by the National Judo Federation (JATA).
According to JATA Secretary General Yohana Jiji, preparations for the two-day event are progressing smoothly, with twelve clubs already confirming their participation. The exact venue for the championship will be announced later.
Jiji said the competition will play a key role in selecting athletes who will represent the country in upcoming international tournaments, including preparations linked to major events such as the Commonwealth Games and other continental competitions.
“This year’s edition of the Judo Club Championships will take place at the end of this month in Dar es Salaam. Twelve clubs have confirmed participation, and the event will help us identify athletes for international assignments,” he said.
He added that the championships come at a crucial time as local judokas are yet to begin formal preparations for the international season. The event will therefore serve as an important platform for talent identification and performance assessment.
Beyond the Commonwealth Games pathway, Tanzania is also expected to send athletes to the Pre-Africa Judo Championships scheduled for mid-July in Pretoria, South Africa.
The participating clubs include Magereza, the defending champions, alongside Aviation Club, Police Field Force, Kigoma, Korogwe, Magomeni, Eilasco, Ruvuma, Tukuyu, Kisutu, Flamingo, and Police.
Jiji noted that while the budget for the championship has not been publicly disclosed, JATA is calling on stakeholders, including the corporate sector and sports supporters, to provide financial and material assistance to ensure the successful hosting of the event.
He also revealed that additional Judo activities are planned for Zanzibar in July, although details will be shared later.
JATA has been working to strengthen the sport through local clubs, international training partnerships, and school-based programs aimed at developing competitive athletes for global events.
At the most recent Olympic Games in Paris, Tanzania was represented by Andrew Mlunge through a universality slot. He was eliminated after a 10–0 defeat to French judoka Joan Benjamin Gaba.
