MBEYA: NMB Bank has stepped up its support for the 2026 SHIMISEMITA Games, positioning employee health and sports as part of efforts to improve productivity and public service delivery.
The games, being held in Mbeya, have brought together more than 5,000 public servants from 184 local government authorities across the country.
NMB Highlands Zone Manager Wogofya Mfalamagoha said the bank’s support was based on the link between a healthy workforce and effective service delivery.
“A healthy employee is better placed to be productive and deliver quality services to citizens,” Mr Mfalamagoha said.
This year, NMB has contributed Sh34.5 million and provided playing kits for teams that reach the quarter-finals in football, volleyball, netball and basketball.
The support places sports beyond competition, reflecting their potential role in promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and teamwork among public servants.
The guest of honour, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), Prof Riziki Shemdoe, who represented Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, commended NMB for partnering with the Government on initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of public servants.
Prof Shemdoe said SHIMISEMITA also provides an opportunity to strengthen unity and cooperation among local government employees.
For local authorities, such interaction can contribute to stronger working relationships, which are important in coordinating services delivered at community level.
Mbeya Regional Commissioner Beno Malisa said hosting the games had also increased economic activity in the region as thousands of participants and accompanying stakeholders spent time in the area.
The economic impact extends beyond the playing fields, benefiting accommodation providers, transport operators, food vendors and other businesses serving visitors.
The games are also taking place as Tanzania prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Kenya and Uganda, adding significance to the country’s wider efforts to use sport to promote health, social interaction and economic activity.
