TEN clubs from East African Community member states are in Dar es Salaam ahead of the East African Judo tournament starting today.
There are seven teams from Tanzania Mainland. The teams are Budocan Korogwe from Tanga, Budocan Dar es Salaam, Juukai, JKT, JWTZ, Police and Prisons while the Isles will also bring teams.
The only neighbouring countries to participate in the tournament are Kenya, Burundi and Uganda, who have confirmed their participation.
Speaking with ‘Daily News’, Tanzania Judo Association’s Secretary General Innocent Mallya said the event was previously planned to take place in Moshi, Kilimanjaro but it was moved to Dar es Salaam as the venue will be used to stage Olympic Games qualifiers.
“We have decided do it in Dar es Salaam because there are other tournaments to be held there next week.
“With major aim to organize the national team, the tournament will help a lot to shape our partnership with other African countries.
“We are looking forward to having problems that will be good for those who will be attractive to those who will cooperate. We would like Tanzanians to come and give their team’s support because they represent the nation.
“The tournament will be used to select the national judo team for next year’s national and international competitions. The last time the tournament was held in Moshi and the Magereza team won the coveted trophy,” said Mallya.
