‘Superior sports arenas top priority’  

THE government has committed to continue developing sports infrastructure countrywide to enhance a favourable environment to enable athletes to perfectly showcase their talents.

Vice-President Philip Mpango made these remarks when flagging off the Inter Primary and Secondary Schools games at Ali Hassan Mwinyi Stadium in Tabora on Tuesday.

Speaking at the occasion, VP  highlighted the importance of improved world-class sports infrastructure to create quality athletes right from the grassroots level to the senior teams who will eventually represent well the country in the global level games.

“The government is fully committed to developing sports facilities in the country so as to create a favourable environment, build youth from the grassroots level and emerge as top performers nationwide and globally.

“That’s why the government invests in sports infrastructure and these grassroots games in schools to get talents that build solid national teams for the global level games.”

VP Mpango ascribed that this is why President Samia Suluhu Hassan has vowed to support all athletes and ensure that the sports industry gets prospers. He added the fruits have already been seen.

Adding, he said the government is implementing plans to improve sports infrastructure in 56 selected schools in the country.

“Right now, we have completed improving the sports infrastructure in secondary schools: Tabora Boys and Girls and we are preparing to enhance six other schools by laying artificial turf in those schools, at the cost of 24 bn/-.

He revealed that the project implementation will complete in this fiscal year within 18 months. “Completing this infrastructure will enable students to play in high-quality fields and facilitate the preparation of talented athletes.”

To ensure  President Samia’s goal is successful,  Mpango has instructed the region’s leaders and the relevant councils to manage these projects with integrity and honesty so that they are completed on time and per the value of money.

“Therefore, I instruct the leaders of the regions and the relevant councils to manage these projects with integrity and honesty so that they are completed on time and per the value of money. Take immediate action when there is any waste or defects.

“The government desires to see the country have world-renowned athletes who will promote Tanzania well, who will be able to boost their lives economically and contribute to the development of society and the nation.

In addition, he used the opportunity to emphasise promoting the Paralympic games. Mpango continued that this type of sport not only helps to improve the health of those with physical disabilities but also helps to develop their talents and fulfill their dreams of participating in global Paralympics games.

In recognition of that contribution, the Head of State received an honourary award from the National Sports Council for her remarkable contribution to developing sports in the country on March 17th this year.

Further acknowledging President Samia’s contribution and impact on sports development, he conveyed her greetings and commitment to ongoing school games.

“I bring you many greetings from President Samia Suluhu Hassan; she wishes you good games and has sent me to tell you that she will continue to improve the sports infrastructure in the country to ensure that the nation has talented sportsmen who can proudly represent the country well.”