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The Tanzania Volleyball Federation (TVF) has launched an ambitious plan to establish the country's first fully-fledged Volleyball Premier League, using this year's Tanzania Volleyball National League (TVNL) as the pathway to determine the founding clubs of the new competition.
The move marks a significant step in the federation's efforts to professionalise volleyball in Tanzania by creating a more competitive and sustainable league structure capable of supporting player development, attracting sponsorship, and expanding the sport's national profile.
Speaking after the official launch of the 2026 TVNL at the Mwembe Yanga Grounds in Dar es Salaam, TVF Secretary General Laurence Safari said the federation is transitioning from a short-term qualification model to a season-based league system similar to those used in other major sports.
"This is a major transformation for volleyball in Tanzania. We want to establish a long and competitive league that runs from November to May every season, creating greater consistency for clubs, players and stakeholders," Safari said.
The 2026 TVNL, which began on August 3, is being played in two rounds. The first round will conclude on August 10, while the second round is scheduled for September 21 to October 3, before the competition moves into the playoff and final stages.
A total of 14 men's teams and 10 women's teams from across the country are competing in the tournament. At the conclusion of the league, the top 10 men's teams and top eight women's teams will earn places in the inaugural TVF Premier League.
Under the new structure, clubs that qualify for the Premier League will become permanent members of the top division, while teams from regional leagues and the First Division will have opportunities to gain promotion through a promotion-and-relegation system.
Safari said the new model is expected to raise playing standards, provide athletes with more competitive match opportunities, and create a stronger platform for talent identification and development.
"The longer season will improve the quality of competition, help nurture young talent and make the league more attractive to sponsors and investors," he added.
He also praised Temeke Municipal Council for its continued investment in upgrading the Mwembe Yanga Grounds, describing the improvements as an important contribution to the growth of volleyball by providing better facilities for players and fans.
Safari further acknowledged the support of the government through the ministry responsible for sports, the National Sports Council (NSC), and corporate partners including Azam, Vodacom and GSM, saying their contributions have played a crucial role in advancing the sport nationwide.
On the court, Jeshi Stars made a strong start to the campaign by defeating Tanzania Prisons 3-1 in the opening men's match played at Mwembe Yanga on the night of August 3.
The competition continues with several fixtures scheduled in both categories. In the men's division, Jeshi Stars will face Nyika, Best Six will take on KIUT, Genesis will battle Polisi Tanzania, while TPDC will meet Milambo.
In the women's category, Tanzania Prisons will play Jeshi Stars, NM Bandari will face Nyika, and Genesis will take on Mafinga Parish as teams continue their quest to secure places in Tanzania's new Volleyball Premier League.
The federation hopes the new competition will provide a solid foundation for the long-term growth of volleyball and strengthen Tanzania's ability to compete at regional and international levels.
