SANYA JUU: SIHA District Commissioner, Dr Christopher Timbuka, has officially launched the West Kili Forest Tour Challenge competition which is expected to attract over 800 participants from within and outside the country, while aiming to promote tourism, encourage sports and stimulate economic growth for the people of Siha District.
The competition will be held from June 20 to 21, 2026 in the West Kilimanjaro forest belt and will include 5, 10 and 21 km races, along with bicycle and motorbike competitions that will pass through the attractive landscape of the forest.
Speaking during the launch, Dr Timbuka said the event is an important opportunity to promote Siha as a hub for nature tourism and sports, while providing an opportunity for the people to benefit economically through various businesses that will accompany the competition.
He said preparations have been completed to ensure that the competition is held with great success and becomes part of important tourism and sports events in the country.
In addition, the organizers have stated that before the competition day, a special entertainment evening will be held that will bring together participants, stakeholders and citizens through various social activities, food, drinks and entertainment towards the main day of the competition.
The competition is supported by the companies Mati Super Brands Ltd, Bonite Bottlers Ltd, Notice Kilimanjaro, CYCA Tanzania and Solo Adventures which have promised to collaborate to ensure that the event is held with great success and is unique.
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For his part, the Member of Parliament for Siha Constituency, Dr Godwin Molel, said he will continue to encourage citizens, stakeholders and his friends to participate in the competition to increase tourism and the economy in the area.
He said he will collaborate with the Zara Tours company as well as TATO and TLTO institutions to invite agents and tourism companies to visit the area and experience the various tourism opportunities available within the park.
According to the Chief Conservator of West Kilimanjaro Forestry, Robert Faida, the West Kili Forest Tour Challenge is not just a sports competition, but an important platform to promote West Kilimanjaro’s tourist attractions and promote environmental conservation through sports and sustainable tourism.