Ministry urges CHANETA to address netball challenges

ARUSHA: THE government has directed the Tanzania Netball Association (CHANETA) to engage with the National Sports Council (BMT) to address and resolve the challenges impeding the development of the sport in the country.

This directive was issued by the Deputy Minister for Culture, Art and Sports Hamis Mwinjuma during CHANETA’s annual general meeting held recently at the AICC in Arusha.

He noted that while netball was once the second most popular sport in the country, its popularity has diminished due to internal conflicts and a subsequent decline in sponsorship.

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He emphasised the need for the association to rejuvenate the sport, acknowledging that the government is committed to bringing in experts, including coaches and referees as part of promoting the sport.

“The HAMIS Mwinjuma government will work on facilitating the training of local experts, either through bringing in specialists or sending individuals abroad.

This will help in improving the sport’s standards and ensuring its growth,” Mwinjuma stated.

He also stressed that CHANETA must avoid favoritism in selecting the national team and ensure proper preparations to enhance the team’s perforomance

“The government will provide full support for the national team to compete internationally, ensuring they have the resources and backing needed to perform at the highest level,” he added.

Devotha Marwa, Chairperson of CHANETA, outlined the objectives of the general meeting, which included discussing the development of netball, reviewing the association’s constitution and presenting financial reports.

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She highlighted the challenges faced by the sport, such as declining popularity and insufficient sponsorship.

“It is crucial to revisit and update the CHANETA constitution to meet the current needs and demands of the sport.

A revised constitution will provide clear guidelines for effective governance and define the roles and responsibilities of the association, its members and stakeholders,” she said.

Meanwhile the Deputy Minister Mwinjuma visited the Arusha football stadium construction site to inspect the project’s progress and expressed satisfaction with the contractor’s efforts and the project’s commitment to the country’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

“The contractor acknowledges that we are slightly behind schedule but is committed to making up for lost time to ensure the project is completed on time for AFCON.

I am also pleased to see that many locals have been employed directly through this project. Their dedication and hard work are contributing significantly to the country’s benefit,” Mwinjuma emphasised.