Eight countries to feature in East Africa netball event

Dar es Salaam. Teams from eight countries are expected to compete in the East Africa Netball Club Championships scheduled for the end of April at the National Indoor Stadium.

The participating countries include Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, the DR Congo, South Sudan, Zanzibar, and the host, Mainland Tanzania.

Devotha Marwa, the chairperson of the Tanzania Amateur Netball Association (Chaneta), informed The Citizen yesterday that the DR Congo and South Sudan teams will be invited to the tournament to enhance its competitiveness.

 Marwa said that the usual participants are teams from Kenya, Uganda, Zanzibar, and Tanzania Mainland.

However, this time they have decided to expand participation. “Chaneta plans to have many teams compete in the event for the first time in its history.

 Teams from neighbouring countries will be invited to spice up the championships,” said Marwa.

She explained that they are currently seeking sponsors to support the tournament, and the commencement date will be announced later.

Tanzania is expected to be represented by Tamisemi, JKT Mbweni, Uhamiaji, Jeshi Stars, NSSF, Polisi Arusha, and Uhamiaji.

 Zanzibar’s lineup includes KVZ, Mafunzo, JKU, Zimamoto, the Warriors, and Pemba. Additionally, men’s teams such as Bandari Veterans and Smart Boys from Mainland Tanzania and JKU from Zanzibar will participate.

 These teams secured their spots in the regional event based on their impressive performances in the Union Netball Championship held last year.

As preparations for the competition are underway, Marwa stressed the importance of dedication, urging all Tanzanian teams to take the event seriously, considering the country’s previous lack of success in winning the championship.

“We have competed in many events, but until now, we have not been able to clinch the title. Now that we are now hosting the competition, teams have to fight hard and win the title for the first time,” she said.

She also called on men’s teams to start preparations and shine in the next event.

“We are also not doing well in the men’s category; we need to stretch our muscles ahead of the event,” she said.

Meanwhile, Chaneta acknowledges the high standards exhibited by the teams in various competitions following last year’s annual calendars. Marwa commended the talented young players who showcased their skills.

Despite these positive developments, Marwa revealed that Chaneta is facing challenges in elevating the game to international standards due to a lack of sponsors hindering their efforts.