Tanzania is launching an ambitious initiative to grow basketball nationwide in 2025, targeting youth engagement and infrastructure development. The Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) aims to strengthen the sport’s presence through community programs, school leagues, and new facilities in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Mwanza. This effort seeks to nurture talent and elevate Tanzania’s standing in African basketball.
A National Push for Basketball
The TBF, in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Sports, has outlined a strategic plan to make basketball a cornerstone of youth development. The initiative, dubbed “Basketball for All,” focuses on accessibility, talent scouting, and professional training. It builds on the sport’s growing popularity in urban centers, where local tournaments have gained traction over the past decade.
Key components of the 2025 plan include:
- Youth Engagement: Introducing basketball in 500 primary and secondary schools across 10 regions.
- Infrastructure Development: Constructing 20 new outdoor courts and renovating 15 existing ones.
- Coaching Programs: Training 200 coaches to meet international standards.
- Regional Tournaments: Hosting the inaugural Tanzania Youth Basketball League in July 2025.
| Initiative | Target Regions | Timeline | Budget (TZS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Programs | Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Mbeya | Jan-Jun 2025 | 1.2 billion |
| Court Construction | Arusha, Mwanza, Zanzibar | Mar-Dec 2025 | 3.5 billion |
| Coaching Certification | Nationwide | Feb-Aug 2025 | 800 million |
| Youth League | All 10 regions | Jul-Sep 2025 | 1 billion |
Voices from the Field
Experts and stakeholders are optimistic about the plan’s potential. “Basketball has the power to unite communities and inspire our youth,” said Amina Juma, TBF’s Director of Development. “With these investments, we’re building a foundation for Tanzanian players to compete regionally and beyond.”
John Mwakilima, a coach in Dar es Salaam, emphasized the need for grassroots efforts. “Many kids love basketball but lack proper courts or training. This program will give them a real chance to grow,” he said.
Addressing Challenges
Tanzania’s basketball scene has faced hurdles, including limited funding and inadequate facilities. In rural areas, access to courts and equipment remains a barrier. The TBF’s plan tackles these issues by prioritizing underserved regions and securing partnerships with private sponsors, such as local telecom companies and international sports brands.
The initiative also draws inspiration from neighboring countries like Kenya and Uganda, where basketball has gained momentum through similar programs. By learning from these models, Tanzania aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for the sport.
Looking Ahead
The TBF expects the “Basketball for All” initiative to produce measurable outcomes by the end of 2025, including increased participation and the identification of talents for national teams. With a focus on long-term growth, Tanzania is poised to become a rising force in African basketball.
