Sports funding skyrockets
DAR ES SALAAM: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa stated that the government is committed to boosting the sports sector by leveraging available opportunities, funding and infrastructure.
The Premier made this remark during the National Sports Council Awards ceremony in Dar es Salaam on Sunday, underscoring the government’s year-on-year increase in funding for Tanzania’s sports sector.
The budget for the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports has surged from 35.4bn/- in 2023/2024 to 285bn/- in 2024/2025, marking an increase of 249.6bn/-, which represents an astounding 705.08 per cent rise.
In the subsequent year, the budget further grew to 519bn/- in 2025/2026, an increase of 234bn/- or about 82.05 per cent from the previous year.
When compared to the budget for 2023/2024, which was set at 35.4bn/-, the budget for 2025/2026 has increased by 483.6bn/-.
This marks a growth of approximately 1,368per cent. “This investment reflects President Samia’s vision for sports as a vital driver of national growth,” Majaliwa stated.
He underscored that the additional resources will empower athletes, coaches and sports professionals to excel both locally and on the international stage.
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The awards celebrated Tanzanian athletes who have succeeded in global competitions, serving not only as recognition but also as motivation.
“These awards inspire our athletes to elevate their performance,” said Majaliwa. “With dedication and hard work, success is achievable.”
Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Palamagamba Kabudi, highlighted the government’s pivotal role in transforming the sports landscape under President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He commended milestones such as teams competing in World Cups and strong performances by local clubs in Africa.
“Under President Samia’s leadership, we are elevating our athletes to compete at the highest levels. This funding is crucial for building national pride, creating jobs and fostering unity,” Kabudi remarked.
Majaliwa wrapped up by underlining sports’ broader impact on health and economic growth. “Investing in sports helps build a healthy and thriving nation.”
