Tanzania has sent 34 swimmers to Kampala, Uganda, for the African Swimming Championships Zone Three, with the team seeking strong performances at the five-day competition running from October 20 to 25.
The team’s participation offers an opportunity for the swimmers to measure their abilities against regional competitors and demonstrate the progress made through training and preparation.
Speaking before the team’s departure, National Sports Council (BMT) Senior Sports Officer Charles Maguzu urged the swimmers to compete with determination and aim for the championship title.
Maguzu, who handed over the national flag to the team, said the swimmers had the potential to perform well and raise Tanzania’s profile in the sport.
“We urge our swimmers to give their best to ensure we win the championship. We believe they have the ability to perform well and promote Tanzania through swimming,” he said.
He also challenged the team to use the competition to assess its strengths against swimmers from other countries, making the championships an important test of their preparedness.
The team comprises Isaac Mukani, Alberto Itatiro, Filbertha Demello, Fidel Kavishe, Nicolene Viljoen, Celine Matembo, Abbas Abdulali, Oscar Liebchen, Nabil Ahmed, Shuneal Bharwani and Ibrahim Igoro.
Other members are Camilla Kyenekiki, Nolan Maginga, Ethan Makala, Ithra Kahemele, Arthur Mushi, Luke Okore, Austin Okore, Julius Missokia, Max Missokia, Abigail Matungwa and Mikhail Mangush.
The remaining swimmers are Mark Tibazarwa, Cathleen Maokola, Ruby Stanley, Kabeer Lakhani, Leyna Borega, Lorita Borega, Konhelli Mhela, Iris Mattaka and Imaan Kimario.
The team will compete in Kampala until October 25, seeking to translate its preparations into results and strengthen Tanzania’s presence in regional swimming.