Padel federation calls for national support

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Padel Federation Tanzania (PFT) has called on both public and private institutions to intensify support for the fast-growing padel sport, as the discipline continues to attract increasing interest across the country.

Padel, a dynamic racket sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, is steadily gaining popularity in Tanzania, with more players and facilities emerging in major cities.

Speaking to the Daily News in Dar es Salaam recently, PFT spokesperson Umberto Cattaneo said collaboration between government and the private sector is crucial to unlocking the sport’s full potential.

“Government support does not always have to be financial. What is most important is understanding the future and social value of padel,” Cattaneo said.

He noted that the government can play a key role by facilitating the development of padel infrastructure, particularly by easing import procedures and duties on specialised courts and equipment sourced from countries such as Spain and Italy.

“When we established our padel centre in Mwanza, our investor benefited from import duty exemptions. We are grateful to the Mwanza authorities who recognised the social importance of the project,” he added.

Cattaneo further observed that Tanzania mirrors his native Italy, where football dominates sports funding and public attention, often overshadowing other disciplines.

“Sport should be viewed broadly. Focusing on one discipline alone limits opportunities for growth and talent development,” he said.

He emphasised the transformative role of sport in society, particularly for young people facing difficult backgrounds.

“Sport teaches discipline, resilience, consistency, selfimprovement and how to win or lose with dignity. For many children, sport becomes a source of stability and hope,” he explained.

The private sector, he added, also has a vital role to play through sponsorships, partnerships and advertising, noting that padel offers strong visibility and commercial potential.

Meanwhile, PFT recently hosted the inaugural Safari Smash Padel Premier, which drew male and female teams in a highly competitive tournament.

In the men’s category, Tembo clinched the title after defeating Simba, while Mamba emerged champions in the women’s competition to claim the coveted trophy.