The Tanzania ParaVolleyball Association is laying a strong foundation for the growth of ParaVolleyball by training a new generation of coaches who will help expand the sport across the country, with plans to introduce it into the UMITASHUMTA and UMISSETA school competitions next year.
The ongoing coaching and refereeing training programme, being held at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), is part of efforts to increase the number of qualified instructors capable of promoting the sport among students and people with disabilities. The training is scheduled to conclude on July 13, 2026.
Speaking during the training on July 11, 2026, ParaVolleyball coach and referee trainer Alfred Selengia said the programme aims to equip participants with practical skills that will enable them to teach and develop the sport at school and community levels.
He said the training has brought together UDSM students, as well as primary and secondary school teachers, who will play a key role in introducing ParaVolleyball to more schools across Tanzania.
“Once they complete the training, participants will be able to support the establishment and growth of ParaVolleyball programmes through schools and regional sports associations,” Selengia said.
He added that 75 participants are taking part in the current programme, an increase from previous training sessions, reflecting growing interest in the sport and its potential to promote inclusion in athletics.
According to Selengia, earlier training conducted at the Malya College of Sports Development attracted 70 participants, highlighting the continued efforts to build a wider network of coaches and officials.
“We have chosen UDSM and Malya College because these institutions specialise in sports development and provide a suitable environment for preparing professionals who can help grow ParaVolleyball in Tanzania,” he said.
Meanwhile, coach Dr Janeth Malay called for increased participation of people with disabilities, particularly women, in coaching and sports development programmes.
She said limited awareness of available opportunities has contributed to low participation among some groups, urging people with disabilities to actively seek training opportunities that can improve their skills and involvement in sports.
“Many opportunities are sometimes taken by people without disabilities because the intended beneficiaries are not fully aware of them. People with disabilities should take advantage of these opportunities to participate and contribute to sports development,” Dr Malay said.
The development of trained ParaVolleyball coaches is expected to strengthen inclusive sports programmes in schools, create more opportunities for athletes with disabilities, and support Tanzania’s broader efforts to promote equal participation in sports.
