East and Central Africa Junior athletics kicks off today in Zanzibar

Dar es Salaam. Runners from seven countries are set to compete in the East and Central Africa Junior Under-17 and Under-20 Athletics Championships, scheduled to kick off today at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.

According to Athletics Tanzania (AT) Secretary General Jackson Ndaweka, the participating countries are Kenya, Uganda, Eritrea, South Sudan, Somalia, Tanzania Mainland, and Zanzibar.

A total of 180 athletes are expected to take part in the two-day event, which concludes tomorrow. Ndaweka noted that the U-17 athletes will compete in various track and field disciplines, including the 100 metres, 200 metres, 400 metres, 800 metres, 1,500 metres, and 5,000 metres races.

Field events will include the javelin throw, discus throw, and triple jump, while the young sprinters will also participate in the 4x100 metre relay.

For the U-20 category, the athletes will compete in an expanded list of events, including the 100 metres, 200 metres, 400 metres, 800 metres, 1,500 metres, 5,000 metres, and 10,000 metres. Field events for this category will also include the javelin, discus, and triple jump, among others. “All preparations are complete, and all the participating teams have already arrived in Zanzibar, ready to compete,” said Ndaweka.

“The official opening ceremony will begin at 8am, and we expect a lively and competitive atmosphere as young athletes showcase their talent.”

Ndaweka expressed optimism about the performance of the Tanzanian athletes. “The competition will be tough, but our local runners are well-prepared and eager to deliver strong performances,” he said.

The Tanzania Mainland teams are under the guidance of two experienced coaches: Aman Ngoka, who is in charge of the men’s team, and Pendo Chacha, who is leading the women’s team.

He added that the championship offers an important platform for young athletes to gain exposure and compete at the regional level.

“We hope this competition will not only produce great results but also inspire upcoming athletes to aim higher,” said Ndaweka.

The championship is expected to attract a large number of spectators and athletics enthusiasts, highlighting the growing popularity of track and field sports across East and Central Africa.

This is the second time Zanzibar is hosting the event and the fourth time overall for the United Republic of Tanzania. Zanzibar also hosted last year's edition, while Mainland Tanzania hosted the event in 2022 and 2023.