Four Tanzanians set to make history in power slap competition

Dar es Salaam. Four Tanzanian athletes are set to make history today, November 30, 2024, as the first participants from the country to compete in Power Slap, a new combat sport debuting in Tanzania.

The event will take place at Masaki’s Pulse Gymnasium in Dar es Salaam.

The matches will feature Ismail Monga facing Lucas Masali, while Abdallah Mohamed Aboubakar will square off against Ibrahim Jumanne Iddi.

Ahead of the event, the athletes, all professional boxers, expressed excitement about the launch of Power Slap in Tanzania, expressing that it was an opportunity to diversify their sporting careers.

"As athletes, it’s important to explore new opportunities in sports. Power Slap is a fresh and exciting challenge, and we’re proud to be the first Tanzanians to compete in this sport," said Monga.

Mr Aboubakar shared a similar view, emphasizing the potential of Power Slap to grow into a major sport in Tanzania.

“We believe this sport has the potential to become as popular in Tanzania as it has in countries like America. It could also provide financial benefits to athletes as it grows,” he said.

The athletes also highlighted their commitment to promoting diverse sports in Tanzania.

They hope their participation will inspire others and contribute to the growth of innovative sports in the country.

The event, organized by Fight for Change, has been endorsed by the National Sports Council (NSC).

The founder and director of Fight for Change, Mr Karim Bhaloo, explained that Power Slap offers a unique combat sports experience, where opponents take turns delivering open-handed slaps.

“This competition marks a significant moment for Tanzania as we introduce an exciting sport that promises both entertainment and community development,” said Mr Bhaloo, who doubles as an accomplished boxer.

Beyond the competition, Fight for Change aims to use sports to support vulnerable groups, including orphans and individuals recovering from drug addiction.

Mr Bhaloo expressed hopes that Power Slap will gain national traction, with plans to establish clubs countrywide.

“Our goal is to lay a strong foundation for Power Slap and make it as widely accepted as mainstream sports. This is just the beginning,” he said.

The founder of Pulse Gymnasium, Mr Jabir Jaffer, described Power Slap as a refreshing addition to Tanzania’s sports scene.

“This sport is unique and entertaining. It offers Tanzanians a chance to experience something new and exciting,” he said, predicting it will capture the interest of sports fans and those seeking unconventional entertainment.

Fight for Change Public Relations Manager Daniel Kijo, added that the event aligns with the mission of making Tanzania a hub for innovative sports and talent development.

“Sports are a powerful tool for community development. Through Power Slap, we aim to inspire enthusiasm and encourage young people to explore new sports,” Kijo said.