Tanzania’s youth are spiking their way to success as volleyball gains momentum across the country. A new initiative, launched in Dar es Salaam on June 10, 2025, aims to train young athletes and build a strong foundation for the sport. This program, supported by local and international partners, seeks to empower the next generation of Tanzanian volleyball champions.
A Growing Passion for Volleyball
Volleyball is rapidly becoming a favorite among Tanzanian youth, with schools and community clubs seeing increased participation. The Tanzania Volleyball Federation (TVF), in collaboration with the German Volleyball Youth (DVJ), has introduced a nationwide training program targeting players aged 12 to 18. The initiative focuses on developing skills, teamwork, and discipline, particularly for girls and young women.
The program kicked off with a training camp in Dar es Salaam, attended by over 200 young athletes from 10 regions, including Mwanza, Arusha, and Mbeya. Plans are underway to expand the program to 15 additional regions by the end of 2025, with the goal of reaching 1,000 participants.
Key Program Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | June 10, 2025 |
| Location | Dar es Salaam, expanding to 15 regions |
| Participants | 200+ youth (aged 12-18) |
| Organizers | Tanzania Volleyball Federation, German Volleyball Youth |
| Goal | Train 1,000 young athletes by end of 2025 |
Voices from the Court
The initiative has sparked excitement among participants and coaches. “This program is a game-changer for young players. It gives us a chance to learn from experts and dream big,” said Amina Juma, a 16-year-old player from Moshi.
Coach Peter Mushi, a former national team player, emphasized the program’s long-term impact. “We’re not just teaching volleyball; we’re building confidence and leadership. These kids could represent Tanzania on the global stage one day,” he said.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Tanzania’s sports sector is seeing significant investment, with the government allocating 519.66 billion TZS to sports and culture for the 2025/26 fiscal year, an 82.1% increase from the previous year. This funding supports infrastructure upgrades and youth programs, creating an ideal environment for volleyball’s growth. Partnerships with international organizations, such as the DVJ, further strengthen these efforts by providing training resources and expertise.
The program also aligns with Tanzania’s broader goals of youth empowerment and gender equality. By prioritizing female athletes, it addresses barriers to participation and promotes inclusivity in sports.
Partnerships Driving Success
The collaboration between Tanzanian and German volleyball organizations is a key driver of the program’s success. The DVJ has established partnerships linking cities like Hamburg with Dar es Salaam and Kiel with Moshi. These partnerships facilitate knowledge exchange and provide equipment, such as volleyballs and nets, to local clubs.
- Hamburg-Dar es Salaam: Focuses on urban youth training programs.
- Kiel-Moshi: Supports rural communities with coaching clinics.
- Tübingen-Moshi: Provides mentorship for female athletes.
Looking Ahead
The youth volleyball initiative is a stepping stone for Tanzania’s sports ambitions, including preparations for co-hosting the AFCON 2027 with Kenya and Uganda. By investing in young athletes today, Tanzania is building a legacy of champions who could compete internationally. The TVF plans to host a national youth volleyball tournament in December 2025 to showcase the program’s progress.
