By Victoria Godfrey
A record 184 local government councils are set to compete in the 2026 SHIMISEMITA Games to be held in Mbeya this August, marking a significant rise in participation as public servants increasingly embrace workplace sports to promote health and strengthen teamwork.
The Chairperson of SHIMISEMITA, Jeshi Godfrey Pembe, said the number of participating councils has risen sharply from 152 that took part in last year's tournament in Tanga, underscoring the growing popularity of the annual event among local government employees.
Pembe said the increasing turnout reflects a broader appreciation of the role sports play in improving employees' physical well-being, enhancing workplace cohesion and fostering stronger professional relationships across local government institutions.
"The preparations are progressing well, particularly on the administrative side, while participating teams are intensifying their training to ensure a highly competitive tournament," Pembe said.
He added that organisers are finalising logistical arrangements ahead of the competition, with participating teams expected to showcase their sporting talent and reinforce the spirit of unity and collaboration that the SHIMISEMITA Games seek to promote.
The annual tournament brings together employees from local government authorities across Tanzania, serving as a platform to encourage healthy lifestyles, teamwork and networking while strengthening bonds among public servants beyond their daily work responsibilities.
