TCA hands over UDSM football pitch in landmark sports initiative
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Cricket Association (TCA) has confirmed its commitment to developing sports infrastructure and nurturing young talent after officially handing over a newly constructed football pitch to the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM).
The symbolic handover ceremony, held over the weekend, marked another milestone in TCA’s efforts to promote sports development beyond cricket by investing in quality facilities that benefit the wider sporting community.
The ceremony was officiated by TCA Chairman Dr Balakrishna Sreekumar, while International Cricket Council (ICC) Associate Members Chairman Mubashshir Usmani graced the occasion as the chief guest.
The facility was officially received on behalf of the university by Dr Paulina Mabuga, Dean of Students.
Constructed alongside the newly established UDSM Cricket Grounds, the football pitch underscores TCA’s vision of promoting youth development through improved sports infrastructure.
The event attracted an international delegation of cricket administrators from across Africa, who joined university students and players in a friendly penalty shootout to celebrate the handover.
The visiting delegation included Bashir Badu Ansasiira (Chairman, ILT20 Africa), Francis Trevor Samura (Sierra Leone Cricket Association), Sumod Damodar (Botswana Cricket Association), Bavesh Gohil (Cricket Kenya), Stephen Musaale (Rwanda Cricket Association) and Jackson Kavuma of the Uganda Cricket Association.
As part of the initiative, TCA also donated 35 footballs to the university and provided refreshments for guests and participants.
During the ceremony, Sreekumar said investing in quality sports facilities and supporting different sporting disciplines is key to building stronger communities and creating opportunities for young people to excel both on and off the field.
Before the handover, Director of Social Services Dr Lulu Mahai, speaking on behalf of the University Management, expressed gratitude to the Tanzania Cricket Association for its continued partnership and support.
“We wish to express our sincere appreciation to the Tanzania Cricket Association for your timely support and successful completion of the football ground. Your commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure at the University is highly valued, and we commend your continued partnership and dedication,” she said.
Dr Mahai added that the university was honoured to host the symbolic handover ceremony, describing the project as an important milestone in strengthening sports development at the institution.
