State affirms use of VAR in Premier League

DODOMA: THE government has affirmed that in next season the NBC Premier League will start using Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to ensure fair decisions by referees on the field.

This was stated by Finance Minister, Mwigulu Nchemba, when tabling the 2024/25 National Budget Estimates at the Parliament in Dodoma yesterday.

“I would like to inform this esteemed Parliament that in the next season of the NBC Premier League, we will start using Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to ensure fair decisions by referees on the field,” he said.

The minister proposed an exemption for importation of VAR machines to ensure their availability in respective stadia to stage the matches.

“To ensure availability of VAR in all stadiums, I propose an exemption for importation of VAR machines and peripheral accessories. Clarification will be provided later. It is possible!” he remarked.

ALSO READ: VAR comes to Mkapa Stadium

The installation of VAR is an integral part of the preparations for the 2027 African Cup of Nations, which Tanzania will co-host with Uganda and Kenya. The government is committed to hosting the finals and preparations are underway, including the construction of the Samia Football Stadium in Arusha.

Additionally, there is an emphasis on the Tanzania Football Federation preparing the national team well, to ensure that the trophy remains at home.

“I urge the Tanzania Football Federation to prepare our national team so that the trophy remains home. Further, I commend our national football team; Taifa Stars for qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the third time in our nation’s history, and our national women’s football team, Twiga Stars to qualify for the WAFCON tournament, which will be held in 2024 in Morocco,” he said.

Further, in sports arena, the Government has continued to identify and nurture talents from schools.

That initiative has contributed to an increase in employment and income for players signed into various teams, both domestic and international. “Government recognises the role of sports, arts and entertainment in promoting employment, especially to youth.

To this end, the Government has continued to link Tanzanian artists with international markets through various meetings and events, while ensuring their copyrights are protected,” he noted.