Dodoma set for thrilling 2025 Taifa Cup Basketball showdown

EXCITEMENT is mounting across the country as preparations hit full throttle for the much-anticipated Taifa Cup Basketball 2025, set to light up Dodoma from June 19 to 28.

The prestigious annual tournament, organised by the Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF), will once again bring together elite men’s and women’s teams from every corner of the country to battle for national glory.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam, TBF Communications Officer Mery Arthur confirmed that groundwork for the tournament is progressing smoothly, with regional teams already mobilised to begin early training and preparations.

“We’re excited to announce that preparations for the Taifa Cup have already begun and we’re looking forward to a successful and thrilling tournament,” said Arthur.

In a boost to nationwide viewership, this year’s tournament will be broadcast live by Azam Media, ensuring fans across the country can experience the action as it unfolds. Arthur also issued a rallying call to all participating regions to prioritise financial planning and logistical readiness:

“We urge all regions to prepare thoroughly in terms of funding, equipment and stakeholder engagement to ensure smooth and competitive participation,” she emphasised.

The 2025 edition is proudly backed by CRDB Bank, returning as the event’s main sponsor for the fifth consecutive year, alongside the continued support of Azam TV, whose partnership has helped elevate the profile of the tournament nationwide.

Beyond the thrill of competition, the Taifa Cup continues to play a vital role in promoting basketball development and identifying emerging talent from across Tanzania.

The stakes are high as last year’s champions, Kigoma (men) and Mara (women) are gear up to defend their crowns. Adding to the anticipation, Dar es Salaam, the 2023 champions who missed the 2024 edition, are set to make a return this year, promising an even more fiercely contested tournament.

In addition to team accolades, individual brilliance will be celebrated, with top performers set to receive honours such as Most Valuable Player (MVP) and other category awards.

In last year’s edition, Amin Mkosa (Kigoma) and Noelah Renatus (Unguja) claimed MVP honours in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively. Other last year individual best performers in the men’s category include Best Scorer – Tyrone Edward (Kigoma), Best Defender – Fotius Ngaiza (Dodoma) and Best Rookie – Minja (Mtwara).

In the women’s category were Best Scorer – Jesca Julius (Mara), Best Defender – Tumaini Ndossi (Unguja) and Best Rookie – Nelious Mbugeni (Arusha).