Students preparing to represent Dodoma Region in the Tanzania Secondary Schools Sports and Arts Competition (UMISETA) have received a major morale boost following the donation of sports equipment by Mtumba Constituency Member of Parliament, Anthony Peter Mavunde.
The equipment was officially handed over at Dodoma Secondary School on behalf of the MP by his secretary, Silas Makanyaga, who said the support followed a request from Dodoma City Council through the Office of the Secondary Education Officer, aimed at strengthening preparations for both district and regional UMISETA competitions.
Makanyaga said the MP responded by providing jerseys and essential sports gear across all participating disciplines, describing the gesture as part of continued efforts to nurture young talent in the city.
He called on the student athletes to uphold discipline, respect their coaches, and remain focused throughout the competition, noting that Dodoma has built a strong reputation for sporting excellence.
“We urge our young athletes to play with discipline, listen to their teachers and continue performing well. Dodoma City has always been a strong competitor and a consistent winner in various sports competitions,” he said.
Dodoma City Secondary Education Officer, Mwl. Daniel Mapilya, said 120 students from different secondary schools entered camp on June 5 to prepare for the regional UMISETA games, which were scheduled to officially begin on June 8.
He said the students had demonstrated strong commitment and readiness, adding that the arrival of sports equipment had further boosted morale, confidence, and unity among the teams.
“We have received various equipment, including jerseys, which have increased enthusiasm and joy among our students. We sincerely thank the Honourable MP for his continued support and commitment to the development of school sports,” said Mwl. Mapilya.
Dodoma City Sports Officer, Peter Ititi, praised the contribution, saying the consistent support from the MP over the past four years has played a key role in improving performance and competitiveness among student teams.
He said the provision of equipment had strengthened preparation and encouraged young athletes to aim higher in regional and national competitions.
Among the beneficiaries, Munira Mohamed, a shot put and netball player, said the support had motivated athletes to train harder and compete with greater confidence.
Football team captain, Gabriel Peter, said the team was fully prepared to deliver strong results and bring home trophies as a way of appreciating the MP’s continued investment in youth sports development.
The UMISETA regional competitions in Dodoma bring together a wide range of sports and arts disciplines, including football, netball, basketball, handball, volleyball, athletics, indoor games, Bongo Flava performances, table tennis, goalball, choir competitions, and traditional dances.
