DAR ES SALAAM: THE Regional Commissioner of Dar es Salaam, Albert Chalamila, has pledged a bonus of 50m/- to the Dar City basketball team if they reach the semifinal stage of the Africa Basketball League.
Dar City secured a place in the quarterfinals after winning two matches and losing two during the BAL Nile Conference games held in South Africa. The Tanzanian side advanced on a superior head-to-head record.
Chalamila made the announcement today at Julius Nyerere International Airport while presenting the national flag to the team before its departure to Kigali, Rwanda, where it is set to face Petro de Luanda in the quarterfinals tomorrow.
He said the incentive was jointly organized with district commissioners from Dar es Salaam Region in recognition of the team’s efforts in representing Tanzania on the international stage.
“My fellow district commissioners and I will reward you with 50m/- if the mission is accomplished,” Chalamila said.
He also praised the efforts of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports in developing the country’s sports sector, saying the progress continues to promote Tanzania internationally.
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Chalamila cited the recent visit by former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand as an example of the sector’s growing success.
He further encouraged Tanzanians to continue nurturing young sporting talent to help athletes reach international standards.
Meanwhile, Ilala District Commissioner Edward Mpogolo said that since Tanzania gained independence, no basketball team had ever reached the BAL quarterfinal stage, describing Dar City’s achievement as historic.
Dar City head coach Mohamed Mbwana said the team is traveling to Kigali with high hopes following thorough preparations.
President of the Tanzania Basketball Federation, Hasheem Thabeet, thanked Tanzanians for continuing to support the team during the BAL tournament.