Jeshi Stars and Tanzania Prisons were crowned champions of the 2026 Dar es Salaam Regional Volleyball League (DAREVA) after producing commanding performances in the Serie A finals held at Kampala Grounds in Gongolamboto on Sunday.
Jeshi Stars lifted the men's title with a 3-1 victory over Tanzania Prisons, while Tanzania Prisons claimed the women's crown after defeating Chui by the same margin in an entertaining final that concluded the regional league season.
The triumph earned both champions Sh1 million in prize money, gold medals and championship trophies.
The runners-up Tanzania Prisons in the men's category and Chui in the women's division—received Sh500,000 each and silver medals.
In the Serie B competition, Best Six emerged champions in the men's category, while Tai secured the women's title, underlining the growing competitiveness of volleyball in the region.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Smart Sport Managing Director George Wakuganda pledged continued support for the development of volleyball, saying the company would strengthen its partnership with DAREVA to improve the quality of the competition.
"We are committed to working with DAREVA and other stakeholders to advance volleyball in Tanzania. In the next edition of the league, Smart Sport will provide every participating team with a complete set of jerseys to enhance the competition," he said.
Jeshi Stars head coach Zainabu Thabiti credited her side's success to disciplined preparations, commitment from the players and strong support from the club's leadership.
"This victory is the result of hard work, discipline and unity within the team. It gives us confidence as we begin preparations for upcoming competitions, including the CDF and BAMATA championships," she said.
Thabiti described the title as another milestone for the club and expressed optimism that her team would maintain its winning form in future tournaments.
For Tanzania Prisons women's head coach Dismas Dick, the championship represented the reward for resilience after the team recovered from an early setback during the play-offs.
"The journey was challenging because we lost one match in the play-offs, but the players remained focused, trusted the technical bench and responded well in the matches that followed. Good preparation and discipline made the difference," he said.
Dick said the triumph was particularly meaningful after taking over the team following last season's quarter-final exit.
"When I was appointed, I believed this squad had the quality to become champions. Winning this title validates that belief, and our focus now shifts to defending the National Volleyball League (TVNL) title," he said.
