Finance Minister Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar has urged the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) Mnyanjani Football Academy to ensure that the development of young footballers is matched by efforts to instil discipline, integrity and a commitment to education.
Speaking during a visit to the academy in Tanga, Mr Omar said talent alone was not enough to guarantee a successful sporting career, arguing that young athletes also needed strong moral values to thrive both during and after their playing years.
The minister toured the academy's facilities and held discussions with Operations Manager Kassim Haji and the academy's UK talent development coach, Edwanly Monnely, on the progress of its youth football programmes.
Drawing on international experience, Mr Omar said many countries had produced elite athletes through sustained investment in sports, but noted that some promising careers had been derailed by drug abuse and behaviour inconsistent with the values of professional sport.
"It is important to nurture young people on a foundation of discipline and moral values while developing their football abilities so that they can succeed both on and off the pitch," he said.
He added that discipline and ethical conduct are as critical to a footballer's success as technical ability, saying sporting excellence requires good judgement and responsible behaviour beyond match days.
Mr Omar also encouraged the academy to ensure that its players continue with formal education alongside football training.
He said education equips young athletes with knowledge, broadens their outlook and prepares them for opportunities beyond their playing careers.
He said integrating education, character development and quality coaching would help produce well-rounded footballers capable of competing successfully at the highest level while representing Tanzania with distinction.
Mr Haji thanked the minister for visiting the academy and said the visit had provided an opportunity to showcase the academy's training environment and the progress being made in nurturing young football talent.
