Arusha City stamps authority in SHIMISEMITA Games opener

MBEYA: THE Arusha City Council made a strong start at the 2026 National Local Government Sports Federation (SHIMISEMITA) Games following their emphatic 20-8 victory over Rungwe District in a thrilling netball match held at TEKU University grounds in Mbeya.

The victory marked a positive beginning for the Arusha City team, which is participating in all 15 sporting disciplines at the competition, which began on August 15 and is scheduled to run until August 29 this year.

As the team continues with its campaign, Kilimanjaro Fresh Company has supported the team’s participation by donating cartons of drinking water for the players.

The support is aimed at ensuring that athletes have adequate drinking water as they compete in various sporting disciplines during the games.

Speaking while receiving the donation on behalf of the Arusha City Council Director, the Council’s Sports Officer, Benson Maneno, thanked Kilimanjaro Fresh for recognising the importance of sports and supporting the city’s efforts to empower its athletes.

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He said sports play an important role in promoting health, nurturing talents, creating employment opportunities for youth and strengthening social cohesion, making stakeholders’ support crucial to the development of the sector.

“We sincerely thank Kilimanjaro Fresh for recognising the importance of sports and deciding to support the Arusha City teams. This support is part of motivating our players and ensuring they have essential needs while on the field,” said Maneno.

Kilimanjaro Fresh management wished the Arusha City teams success in the competition, expressing confidence that they would perform well and represent the city effectively.

The SHIMISEMITA 2026 Games are continuing in Mbeya until August 29, with Arusha City teams competing for victories in various sporting disciplines.