Tanzanian Athletes Compete for Prestigious Sports Awards
In Dar es Salaam, several Tanzanian athletes are vying for recognition as the National Sports Council (NSC) Best Sports Personality of the Year 2025. Among them is Clement Mzize, a striker for Young Africans (Yanga), who has been shortlisted alongside two other notable athletes. This competition promises to be an exciting event, with Mzize facing off against Alphonce Simbu, a renowned long-distance runner, and Salmin Khamis, a professional boxer making waves in his sport.
The awards ceremony is set to take place on May 9 at the Super Dome in Masaki, Dar es Salaam. This event will celebrate the achievements of Tanzania’s top athletes over the past year, highlighting their contributions to the country’s sporting culture.
Mzize’s nomination comes after an outstanding season with Young Africans S.C., where his skills and consistency have made him one of the most promising young footballers in Tanzania. His inclusion in this prestigious category underscores the continued significance of football in the nation’s sports scene.
However, Mzize will have to contend with Simbu, a globally recognized athlete known for his success in international marathons, and Khamis, whose victories in professional boxing have brought attention to Tanzania’s growing presence in the sport.
Female Athletes Also Shine in Competitive Categories
The Best Sports Personality (Female) category is equally compelling, featuring Stumai Abdallah from football, Magdalena Shauri from athletics, and Merciana Kizenge from basketball. Each of these athletes has demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication in their respective fields.
In addition to individual accolades, team categories will also be awarded. The Best National Team (Men) award will be contested by the Tanzania national football team, the U-19 cricket team, and the Tanzania Amateur Boxing team. On the women’s side, the nominees include the Tanzania women’s national football team, the national basketball team, and the wheelchair tennis team.
Recognition of Excellence in Officiating and Coaching
Individual excellence will also be celebrated in officiating. For the Best Referee (Male) category, Ahmed Arajiga (football), Shaaban Mahobonya (basketball), and Jeremia Keema (swimming) are in the running. In the female category, Tatu Malogo (football) and Dariso Mwidadi (basketball) are among the contenders.
Coaching honours will also be awarded, with top tacticians across various disciplines nominated. In the women’s category, Esther Chabruma (football) and Mariamu Kiwelo (basketball) are highlighted. For the men’s category, Mohamed Mbwana (basketball), Anthony Mwingereza (athletics), and Samwel Kapungu (amateur boxing) are among the nominees.
Youth Categories Highlight the Future of Tanzanian Sport
The future of Tanzanian sport is being recognized through youth categories. The Best Youth Player (Boys) award will be contested by Luqman Mbalasalu (football), Raphael Michael (basketball), and Raymond Francis (cricket). In the girls’ category, Esther Maseke (football), Rose Katamboy (basketball), and Jenifer Kimaro (cricket) are the nominees.
