News

By Zamda George, CMU

In a jubilant ceremony held recently at the University of Dar es Salaam, the Vice Chancellor, Professor William A. L. Anangisye has extended heartfelt congratulations to the University sports team on the remarkable triumph at the 2023 public and private sector corporations’ games (Shirikisho la Michezo ya Mashirika ya Umma na Taasisi Binafsi- SHIMMUTA) that took place in Dodoma City.

In these games that were held in November 2023, the varsity emerged as the third overall winner out of 57 participating institutions, while its athlete Ms. Anna Martin Vindi achieved an extraordinary feat by securing first place in the 400m, 200m, and 100m races, and consequently, clinched all three gold medals.

The Vice Chancellor commended the university's exceptional performance in various sports and expressed immense pride in the dedication and hard work exhibited by the 33 university staff members who participated in the games.

“This achievement has not only showcased the athletic excellence of the University of Dar es Salaam but also highlighted the spirit of unity and teamwork among its members”, said Prof. Anangisye.

Prof. Anangisye said that the SHIMMUTA 2023 games were indeed a testament of the commitment and skills of the University of Dar es Salaam athletes and other players. “The University of Dar es Salaam has not only competed but excelled on a grand scale, bringing honour to our institution and our community”.

In these games, where a total of 57 institutions and 3,874 participants engaged in spirited competition, UDSM victorious teams that showcased their prowess included Volleyball for both men and women, Netball for women, Basketball for women, Athletics/race (riadha) for both men and women, Pool Table for both men and women, board game (Bao) for both men and women, and Cards (Karata) for women.

Extending financial support

Professor Benardeta Killian, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Planning, Finance, and Administration, reiterated the University commitment in supporting the sports endeavours at UDSM.

“Financial support will be extended to ensure that the momentum gained from this victory would propel the university to even greater heights in future competitions”, said Prof. Killian.

She urged the Director of Social Services Dr. Mwajuma Vuzo to establish a dedicated team that would formulate a comprehensive participation criterion. “This will not only streamline the selection process for future competitions but also ensure that the university remains a formidable force in the world of sports”.

In a remarkable gesture of support, Hon. Esther Matiku (MP), a member of parliament, presented a generous cash prize to the university team during the award ceremony in recognition of the outstanding achievement, and to contribute to the continued success and development of UDSM sports programmes.

Meticulous selection process

Meanwhile, Dr. Mwajuma Vuzo, the Director of Social Services, responsible for staff welfare, including sports, elaborated the meticulous selection process of players that contributed to the team's outstanding performance. Dr. Vuzo extended heartfelt congratulations to the athletes, acknowledging their dedication and endurance throughout the competition.

She also expressed gratitude for the steadfast support from the university's management, highlighting their crucial role in fostering an environment conducive to athletic excellence.

Mr. Noel Kiunsi, the University Sports Coordinator, presented a succinct yet impactful report on the university's participation and triumphant achievements at the 2023 SHIMMUTA games. He thanked the university community members for their unwavering support and the pivotal role it played in the team's success.

In a heartfelt mood, Ms. Julieth Tibanywana, on behalf of her fellow athletes, expressed the team’s sincere appreciation to the university administration, coaches, and the entire support staff for their unwavering encouragement and guidance throughout SHIMMUTA 2023.

She emphasised the determination of the university community in fostering an environment conducive to athletic success, and she earnestly requested for an increase in the budget allocation for future tournaments, recognising the positive impact it would have on the team's preparation and performance.