Govt targets 10,000 coaches to boost disability sports

DODOMA: THE government plans to train about 10,000 coaches and sports teachers in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government (PMORALG) as part of efforts to expand disability sports in the country.

Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Paul Makonda told the National Assembly in Dodoma yesterday that the plan is aimed at increasing sports participation among people with disabilities and strengthening the development of athletes in the sector.

Makonda was responding to a question from Nyamizi Mhoja (Special Seats–CCM), who sought to know the government’s strategy for developing sports and nurturing athletes with disabilities.

He said the government is also promoting the establishment and registration of disability sports associations through the National Sports Council (NSC).

“By August 2026, a total of nine sports associations for people with disabilities had been registered, including football, basketball, tennis, athletics and swimming,” Makonda said.

He added that the government is promoting disability sports through the training of coaches, inclusive sports festivals, domestic competitions and facilitating the participation of athletes with disabilities in international competitions.

Makonda said the government would continue encouraging more people with disabilities to take part in sporting competitions as part of efforts to increase the number of athletes in the country.