Handball federation pushes for talent development
MWANZA: THE Handball Federation has intensified efforts to develop young talent and expand the sport across the country as part of a wider strategy to strengthen Tanzania’s presence in international competitions.
The federation president, Michael Chibawala, noted this in Mwanza, the body is implementing various programmes aimed at increasing youth participation in handball at the grassroots level.
Chibawala said the federation wants to see the sport played widely in schools, colleges, clubs and national competitions in order to identify and nurture talented players from an early stage.
“As leaders of the federation, our responsibility is to ensure the game reaches more Tanzanians, especially the youth,” he said.
He explained that the federation is also focusing on organising more local competitions to help players gain experience and improve their ability to compete internationally.
According to Chibawala, the long-term goal is to build strong teams capable of representing Tanzania in continental and global tournaments. He noted that despite football remaining the world’s most popular sport, there is still a significant opportunity for handball and other sports to grow if they receive proper investment and support.
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“Football may have many fans globally, but that does not discourage us. We continue working hard to ensure handball is also recognised, loved and supported in Tanzania,” he added.
Chibawala further stressed that cooperation between the government, teachers, sports stakeholders and communities will play a crucial role in encouraging more young people to participate in handball. He said the federation is currently expanding awareness campaigns in schools and communities to increase the number of people who understand and play the sport.
“We want to see Tanzania become one of the recognised handball nations in Africa and the world through investment in youth development,” he said.
