Government to use NBC marathon winners for international events

Dar es Salaam. The government has said they will use the NBC Dodoma Marathon as a platform for identifying talented runners who will represent the country in the he international competitions such as the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.

The NBC Marathon is scheduled to take place in Dodoma on July 28, featuring both elite and social runners in and outside the country.

The Minister of Culture, Arts, and Sports, Damas Ndumbaro said the government's unwavering commitment to leveraging the NBC Dodoma Marathon as a breeding ground for talents poised to represent Tanzania on the world's most prestigious athletic events.

 "We currently face a shortage of athletes with the necessary qualifications to participate in international competitions. The NBC Dodoma Marathon presents a unique opportunity to identify and nurture the next generation of Tanzanian sporting heroes, who will carry our nation's flag with pride,” said Ndumbaro.

The minister's words carry a sense of urgency, reflecting the government's recognition of the need to bolster Tanzania's presence on the global athletic landscape.

He said that they will identify and provide the talented individuals with further training, equipping them with the skills and experience necessary to compete on the international events. Ndumbaro also commended NBC Bank for their efforts to develop sports sector in Tanzania.

The bank's extensive involvement includes sponsoring the NBC Premier League, NBC Championship, and NBC Youth League, collectively representing an investment of Sh32.6 billion.

The bank's support, however, extends beyond the realm of football.

It also includes the National Arts Development Fund, which empowers the artistic community, and the National team's motivation Committee, which has already collected Sh2 billion to support the nation's sporting endeavours.

For his part, NBC Bank Managing director, Theobald Sabi said the bank's efforts in promoting the sports sector in the country are largely driven by the bank's belief that arts and sports are pillars of employment and national unity.

"NBC Bank's belief that arts and sports are pillars of employment and national unity has been a driving force behind their efforts," he said while adding : "Through our sponsorships in the football leagues we have not only nurtured talent, but also created over 7,000 direct jobs, with millions more in the economic chain,” said Sabi.

According to Sabi, through the NBC Dodoma Marathon, in collaboration with various stakeholders, the bank aims to collect funds to support the government's efforts in improving the health of women and children by combating cervical cancer and providing scholarships for midwives.

The event will be graced by the Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa.