Retired Deputy Prime Minister and Bukombe Member of Parliament Doto Biteko has described the Ngalawa Race as one of the key attractions adding excitement to the ongoing Kizimkazi Festival 2026.
The race, held in Kizimkazi, South Unguja, on August 12, 2026, drew strong competition as participants battled for honours in one of the festival’s major sporting and entertainment activities.
Nassor Pandu of Mkunguni emerged the winner of the Ngalawa Race, which was held alongside a range of cultural, sporting and entertainment activities featured in the festival.
Dr Biteko said the competition was increasingly becoming an important platform for youth and the wider community, bringing together different stakeholders while creating opportunities in sports, recreation and related economic activities.
“It is clear that these competitions have become important for young people and the community at large. The event has brought together various stakeholders and contributed significantly to efforts to improve the environment for sports and entertainment,” Dr Biteko said.
He said the race had also provided economic opportunities for young people, particularly through participation and engagement in activities surrounding the competition.
The competition produced two leading teams, Mchangamle and Mkunguni, with each team comprising 10 captains.
Dr Biteko said the inclusion of traditional sporting activities such as the Ngalawa Race was helping broaden the appeal of the Kizimkazi Festival while providing a platform for communities to showcase their skills and traditions.
The Kizimkazi Festival 2026 continues to feature a mix of cultural, sporting, tourism and business activities aimed at bringing communities together and promoting the area as a destination for visitors.
