Daegu, Republic of Korea | 23 February 2026 — Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay claimed the men’s elite crown at the 2026 Daegu Marathon, producing a decisive late surge to outkick Ethiopia’s Addisu Gobena—the 2024 Dubai Marathon champion.
Geay, who finished second at the 2023 Boston Marathon, secured his first marathon victory with a winning time of 2:05:20, underlining Tanzania’s growing impact on the international road racing circuit.
The Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority participated in a high-profile reception ceremony for former Manchester United football legend and internationally renowned sports analyst from the United Kingdom, Rio Ferdinand, who arrived in Dar es Salaam on May 19, 2026. His visit to Tanzania is regarded as a significant milestone in strengthening sports diplomacy, promoting investment opportunities, and positioning Tanzania globally as a strategic hub for trade, tourism, and investment in Africa.
During the event, Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority had the opportunity to showcase Tanzania’s investor-friendly environment and highlight strategic opportunities across key sectors including sports, mining, tourism, transport and logistics, as well as Special Economic Zones — sectors that continue to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and enhancing Tanzania’s competitiveness in the global market.
The discussions further opened new avenues for strategic collaboration between Tanzania and Rio Ferdinand in promoting Tanzania internationally through sports, investment, and tourism. The partnership is expected to strengthen Tanzania’s global visibility and attract investors, tourists, and business stakeholders from international markets.
Through such initiatives, Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority continues to advance the Government’s agenda of attracting high-impact investment, strengthening international partnerships, and accelerating sustainable economic development for the nation.
Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Ashatu Kijaji, commended the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, for her commitment to advancing the tourism sector. She emphasized that the project within Serengeti will unlock new tourism products, particularly golf tourism, thereby diversifying Tanzania’s tourism portfolio. “The President has translated the growing global concept of golf tourism into practical implementation. This course is set to become a new landmark for both sports and tourism in Tanzania,” she stated.
Kilimanjaro, Tanzania — The Yas Kili International Half Marathon has been officially launched in a high-profile event bringing together government leaders and private sector stakeholders.
The launch was led by Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports, Hon. Paul Makonda, who served as Guest of Honour, alongside Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner Hon. Nurdin Babu, Yas Tanzania CEO Mr. Pierre Canton-Bacara, and Mixx Tanzania CEO Ms. Angelica Pesha.
The leaders marked the occasion by taking the ceremonial first steps, symbolizing the official start of the international race.
The event highlights growing collaboration between government and the private sector in promoting sports development, tourism, and international events in Tanzania, further strengthening the country’s position as a destination for global sporting activities.
Kilimanjaro, Tanzania — The Kilimanjaro Marathon 2026 has once again demonstrated its global appeal, bringing together thousands of runners from around the world in one of Africa’s most celebrated international sporting events.
Set against the iconic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, the marathon attracted elite athletes, amateur runners, and international visitors, highlighting Tanzania’s growing reputation as a host of world-class sporting competitions.
Beyond athletics, the event delivered a strong boost to sports tourism, supporting local businesses and enhancing community engagement. Stakeholders have praised the marathon’s high standards of organization, safety, and inclusivity, which continue to elevate its international profile.
The 2026 edition further showcased Tanzania’s unique strengths—combining natural beauty, hospitality, and global connectivity—and reinforced the country’s position as a premier destination for global events.
As the marathon continues to grow, it remains a key platform for promoting economic development, international visibility, and cultural exchange across the region.
Seoul, South Korea — Ambassador Togolani Mavura has formally received and warmly congratulated Tanzanian athletes who delivered an exceptional performance at the Daegu Marathon in South Korea, reinforcing Tanzania’s growing stature in global long-distance running.
Speaking in Seoul, Ambassador Mavura commended Gabriel Geay for clinching first place for the second consecutive year, a remarkable achievement that underscores his dominance on the international marathon circuit.
He also praised fellow Tanzanian athletes Emanuel Dinday, who secured third place, and Bernard Emanuel, who finished 13th, highlighting their resilience and competitive excellence on the world stage.
Tanzania Shines Among 40,000 Global Competitors
The Daegu Marathon drew an estimated 40,000 athletes from across the world, making it one of the most competitive and internationally recognized road races in Asia.
The strong performance by Tanzanian runners has further elevated the nation’s profile in global athletics and reaffirmed its reputation as a powerhouse in long-distance running.
Ambassador Mavura noted that the athletes’ success not only reflects personal dedication and discipline but also contributes to strengthening Tanzania’s international sporting identity and diplomatic visibility through sports excellence.
The achievement continues to position Tanzania prominently within the global athletics community, inspiring young athletes and reinforcing national pride.
Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba today chaired a meeting of the National Committee for the Preparations of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027) to review progress made in organizing the prestigious tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda in 2027.
The meeting was held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the Prime Minister’s Sub-Office in Magogoni, Dar es Salaam.
During the discussions, the Prime Minister commended the committee for the significant work accomplished so far, expressing satisfaction with the pace and overall direction of the ongoing preparations.
Dr. Mwigulu noted that the progress achieved demonstrates the Government’s strong commitment to ensuring Tanzania becomes an excellent host for the tournament.
He emphasized the importance of full participation across all sectors, urging ministers, permanent secretaries, and other officials to actively engage their respective sectors to ensure positive outcomes during the tournament.
Additionally, the Prime Minister called upon committee members to diligently oversee their assigned responsibilities to ensure all preparation activities are completed within the set timelines and meet acceptable standards.
The Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), in collaboration with the Office of the Arusha Regional Commissioner and the official host, Njohole Legend Foundation, has warmly welcomed FC Bavois of Switzerland upon their arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport in the early hours of January 24, 2026 (2:00 a.m.).
The Swiss football club is in Tanzania for a seven-day visit that combines a high-performance training camp with immersive destination experiences, reinforcing Tanzania’s growing reputation in sports tourism.
During their stay, FC Bavois will be based in Karatu District, where the team will conduct structured training sessions and play international friendly matches against Serengeti Boys and Singida Big Stars. The programme is designed to promote competitive exchange, skills development, and international sporting cooperation.
Beyond the pitch, the visiting delegation will have the opportunity to experience Tanzania’s rich cultural and tourism attractions, fostering people-to-people connections and promoting the country as a friendly and welcoming destination for international visitors.
The visit also includes community outreach activities, with players scheduled to visit selected schools—aimed at inspiring youth, encouraging talent development, and strengthening the social impact of sports alongside international exchange.
The Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Hon. Paul Christian Makonda, has met with the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, in Rabat, Morocco, where he officially delivered a letter from the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Hon. Makonda was accompanied by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary and the Government Chief Spokesperson, Mr. Gerson Msigwa. During the meeting, he reaffirmed President Samia’s strong commitment to working closely with CAF in the implementation of key football development initiatives, including continental and international competitions.
The Minister highlighted Tanzania’s significant progress in preparations to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 alongside Kenya and Uganda, noting the country’s determination to set a new standard and deliver a tournament that surpasses previous editions.
He further urged CAF to consider Tanzania strategically, emphasizing that close collaboration would enhance the successful implementation of the Government’s football development agenda.
In response, Dr. Motsepe expressed his sincere appreciation to President Samia for her letter and conveyed gratitude for her message of goodwill and partnership toward CAF. He reaffirmed CAF’s readiness to work hand in hand with Tanzania in advancing football development across the continent.
Dr. Motsepe also commended the strong leadership and efforts of President Samia and her Government, citing major investments in sports infrastructure, the successful hosting of CHAN 2024, and the ongoing solid preparations for AFCON 2027.
He announced that CAF will deploy a team of experts to Tanzania to collaborate with the Government and key stakeholders in finalizing preparations for AFCON 2027, which is expected to feature 28 participating nations instead of the traditional 24.
Dr. Motsepe concluded by confirming plans to visit Tanzania in the near future to personally assess the preparations and engage in high-level discussions with national leaders.
President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, receives an award from the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe. The award was presented on his behalf by the former Minister for Information, Arts, Culture and Sports—now Minister-designate of State in the President’s Office, State House (Special Duties)—Professor Palamagamba Kabudi. The presentation took place during a ceremony honouring athletes who excelled in international competitions, held at State House in Dar es Salaam on 10 January 2026. The award recognizes the Government’s contribution to the development of football in Africa.
