TZ reviews sports laws to drive growth

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania National Sports Council (NSC) has embarked on a major initiative to review and strengthen the country’s sports legal framework, aiming to enhance governance, unlock economic opportunities and accelerate the overall development of sports nationwide.

Leading the process, Acting Chairperson of the Legal Reforms Committee, Leonard Thadeo, convened a high-level consultative meeting with sports stakeholders from across the sector at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

The forum was designed to collect views, expert opinions and practical recommendations on the proposed legislative amendments. Thadeo said the reforms seek to broaden the interpretation of sports beyond competition, recognising it as a viable source of income, a business opportunity and a strategic driver of sports tourism in Tanzania.

“The proposed amendments aim to provide a wider understanding of sports, including its economic value and its role in promoting sports tourism, investment and national development,” he said.

He added that the review process is also focused on strengthening transparency, accountability and efficiency in sports administration, while creating an enabling environment for sustainable sports growth that benefits the nation.

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“The main objective is to gather stakeholders’ input that will guide improvements in sports activities and ensure that our laws are aligned with current development priorities and emerging economic opportunities,” Thadeo explained.

He further emphasised that the reforms will help ensure sports organisations operate effectively, transparently and in accordance with sound governance principles. Welcoming the initiative, John Manyama, Deputy Secretary of the Tanzania Athletics Association (SRT), commended the NSC for involving sports organisations directly in the legal review process.

“The review identifies existing gaps in the current laws and will help establish a stronger legal framework that responds to the real needs of the sports sector,” Manyama noted.

He stressed that the reform process follows established legal procedures to guarantee that the proposed changes serve the interests of the entire sports fraternity.

“The initial stage focuses on collecting and analysing feedback from stakeholders. The proposals are then submitted to the responsible ministry for further review and guidance,” he said.

Manyama concluded by affirming that the NSC plans to continue engaging closely with all sports stakeholders to ensure that the revised laws and regulations reflect the interests of athletes and contribute to the sustainable growth of sports in Tanzania.