Fast start as Nyerere Volleyball tournament gets underway

DAR ES SALAAM: THE 26th edition of the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere International Volleyball Tournament got off to an energetic start yesterday at the Mwembeyanga grounds, delivering a thrilling showcase of skill and talent.

In the women’s category, hosts JKT and Nyika made emphatic statements with commanding victories in their opening matches.

JKT swept past Star Girls with a clean 3-0 win, while Nyika matched the result in the day’s curtain-raiser against Chui.

Organised by the Tanzania Volleyball Federation (TVF), the prestigious tournament has drawn top teams from across four East and Central African countries, including regional volleyball heavyweights Kenya, Zambia, Burundi and host Tanzania.

The women’s category features five teams — four from Tanzania and one from Zambia — battling it out in a round-robin format.

Representing the host nation are Star Girls, Chui, JKT and Nyika, while Zambia’s hopes rest on the shoulders of the formidable Falcon side.

Men’s category participating teams are grouped into three pools — A, B and C, include Tanzania’s JKT, Serengeti, High Voltage, Nyika, Jeshi Stars and Police Zanzibar, alongside Zambia’s Falcon, Burundi’s Rukinzo and Kenya’s Kenya Prisons and Chema.

TVF official, Shukuru Ally, expressed satisfaction with the smooth kick-off and looked ahead with optimism.

“All is in place for a successful tournament. We are excited to welcome teams from across the region. Fans can expect thrilling matches and a festive atmosphere,” said Ally.

The tournament stands as a celebration of regional unity and athletic excellence, while also paying tribute to Tanzania’s founding father, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere. His ideals of Pan-Africanism, unity and cooperation are reflected in the spirit of the event, where sport becomes a bridge between cultures.

Historically hosted in Moshi in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro region, this year marks a significant return to the bustling coastal city of Dar es Salaam — a move warmly received by fans.

On behalf of the TVF, Ally extended heartfelt thanks to all participating teams for honouring their invitations and making the journey to Tanzania.

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“Your presence here is a testament to the strength of regional cooperation through sport,” he noted.

He also assures fans of highstakes matches, emerging rivalries and standout performances, all in celebration of sport and the legacy of a great African leader.