Ntilema earns International high-performance coaching qualification

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIAN who is based in South Africa and is lifesaving enthusiast Moses Ntilema has officially been recognised as a qualified high-performance international coach in lifesaving and other sports after completing an intensive training programme under the World AntiDoping Agency (WADA).

The globally renowned organisation, which spearheads the fight against doping in sports, certified Ntilema after he completed their demanding online course, which is part of WADA’s broader education programme aimed at promoting clean, safe and fair sport worldwide.

Speaking to the ‘Daily News’ from South Africa, Ntilema described the course as “challenging but rewarding.”

“I’m so grateful to have completed and been awarded this qualification,” he said.

“It’s a huge milestone for me and I’m officially recognised now as a certified lifesaving coach at an international level. My ambition is to use this knowledge to help my country in future.”

He emphasised the importance of the program for all involved in sports, saying: “This course is essential and should be compulsory for all coaches, instructors, and athletes, from national to international level. It’s about safeguarding sport and ensuring clean competition.”

Upholding International Standards

Ntilema was part of a cohort of Level One Lifesaving coaches enrolled in the 2024–2025 season coaching course under Lifesaving South Africa, an organisation known for its strict adherence to international coaching standards.

To qualify, candidates were required to submit a comprehensive set of documents, including LSA registration, police clearance, safeguarding awareness certification, a life saving and first aid certificate, CPR certification, and proof of emergency and oxygen provider training.

In addition, aspiring coaches were tasked with logging at least 30 hours of hands-on coaching across different age groups and lifesaving disciplines.

They also had to submit lesson plans, sign attendance registers and create at least 10 videos showcasing their coaching methods.

“The process is thorough,” Ntilema said. “It ensures that every coach is competent, experienced, and accountable in all aspects of coaching and athlete safety.”

A Lifelong Dedication to Lifesaving

Since 2017, Ntilema has served as a volunteer lifeguard and club member at Bluewater Bay Surf Lifesaving Club in South Africa. His passion spans competitive lifesaving, water safety awareness, and drowning prevention activities.

He sees this achievement not just as personal growth but as a stepping stone to transforming lifesaving and waterports in Tanzania.

“This is a huge achievement for me. I’ve been working hard to develop my lifesaving career to bring international coaching standards back home. I want to help build a strong, competitive Tanzanian team,” he said.

Eyes on the 2026 Lifesaving World Championship

Ntilema has now set his sights on preparing a Tanzanian national team for the 2026 Lifesaving World Championships, which will take place from November 25 to December 14, 2026, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

“This is a golden opportunity for Tanzania and other African nations. Having the championship hosted on our continent is a chance we must seize,” he urged.

He called on the Tanzanian government, national sports authorities and fellow coaches to support his vision.

Advocating for Anti-Doping Education

In addition to coaching, Ntilema is a passionate advocate for anti-doping education. He encourages all sports professionals, from grassroots to elite level, to undertake WADA’s educational programs.

“Understanding athletes’ rights, the risks of doping, and the correct use of supplements or medications is vital,” he said. He noted that under the 2021 WADA Code, which came into effect on January 1, 2021, sanctions for violations can include multi-year bans for athletes and their support personnel.

Ntilema also spoke about recent advancements in testing methods, including Dried Blood Spot (DBS) testing—a less invasive method that collects blood from a fingertip or upper arm.

“Athletes and support personnel must understand these testing methods and procedures,” he said.

“Doping control processes, whether in or out of competition, must be fully respected. Breaking anti-doping rules can lead to bans of two years or more.”

Gratitude and Future Plans

In closing, Ntilema expressed his appreciation to Lifesaving South Africa for trusting him and giving him the platform to develop his career.

“I am deeply grateful for this opportunity. I’ll continue striving to raise the standard of lifesaving sports in Tanzania and across the region,” he said.

Ntilema has already made a name for himself in South Africa, recently receiving three prestigious awards in recognition of his outstanding contributions to lifesaving in the Eastern Cape Province, one of the country’s nine provinces.

For the 2023/2024 season, he was honoured with three major accolades: Lifeguard of the Year, Best Drowning Prevention Initiative of the Year and Technical Official of the Year.

“These awards are a testament to my dedication, and I’m incredibly proud to have my efforts recognised, especially in a foreign country,” Ntilema said.

The annual awards ceremony, organised by Lifesaving South Africa, celebrates individuals across various categories for their exceptional contributions to lifesaving. Ntilema’s recognition as Lifeguard of the Year was based on his unwavering commitment to lifesaving programmes and his expertise in both pool and open-water safety.

The Best Drowning Prevention Initiative of the Year award highlighted his impactful work educating over 250 primary schools in the Nelson Mandela Bay district about water safety.

As a Watersmart facilitator, Ntilema has been actively delivering water safety education not only in schools but also throughout the wider community.

“These awards mark a significant milestone in my career and have given me renewed strength to continue my journey,” Ntilema added.

“They motivate me to keep advancing lifesaving efforts and help me make a meaningful impact in the future.”

Ntilema dreams of bringing lifesaving awareness and programmes to Tanzania, particularly Zanzibar. While lifesaving is not yet widely practiced there, he is determined to change that.

“Zanzibar has the potential to be recognised for having some of the best beaches in Africa, thanks to its unique geography. Enhancing water safety awareness and lifesaving initiatives could play a crucial role in realising this vision,” Ntilema explained.

With his remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication, Ntilema continues to inspire both in South Africa and internationally, standing out as a Tanzanian making a significant impact on the global stage.