International Day of Military Sports 2025 - Tanzania celebrates the 77th anniversary of CISM with vibrant festivities in Dar es Salaam

DAR ES SALAAM (TAN) - On 18 February 2025, the Tanzanian Delegation to CISM joined fellow CISM member nations in commemorating the 77th Anniversary of the founding of CISM. The celebration took place at the General Isamuhyo Football Stadium in the Ndege Beach area of Dar es Salaam, gathering over 500 participants, including members of the armed forces, government officials, sports organizations, academic representatives, and civilians.

The event commenced with the ceremonial hoisting of the CISM and Tanzanian flags, accompanied by their respective anthems, setting a patriotic and unifying tone. The guest of honour, Major General Said Idd Nkambi, officially launched the activities by signaling the start of a light jogging session for all participants, promoting fitness and camaraderie.

The celebrations continued with a dynamic program featuring aerobic exercises and a series of sports competitions, including beach volleyball, wrestling, boxing, tug-of-war, and utility swimming. The event also showcased Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage with traditional dances and energetic jazz performances by members of the Tanzania Armed Forces, seamlessly blending cultural pride with military discipline.

To recognize outstanding performances, Certificates of Achievement were presented to athletes who excelled in the various competitions.

The day was also marked by motivational speeches from distinguished speakers, including Dr. Joyce Ndabi, Head of the Department of Physical Education and Sports Science at the University of Dar es Salaam; Mr. Charles Maguzu, Sports Officer from the Tanzania Sports Council; and Colonel David Michael Luoga, Director of Physical Training, Sports, and Culture. Each emphasized the critical role of sports in enhancing physical fitness, combat readiness, and preventing non-communicable diseases such as obesity, cancer, high blood pressure, and diabetes. They also highlighted the contribution of military sports to the overall development of national sports in Tanzania.

In his address, Brigadier General Saidi Hamis Saidi, Chief of the Tanzanian Delegation to CISM, underscored the significance of the day, stating: "The celebration not only honors CISM’s rich legacy but also demonstrates how military sports serve as a powerful tool for fostering international cooperation and cultural exchange under the banner of CISM." Brigadier General Saidi also expressed gratitude to CISM Headquarters for encouraging Tanzania’s participation in this global celebration, reinforcing the values and history of military sports worldwide.

In his closing remarks, Major General Iddi Said Nkambi, on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, General Jacob John Mkunda, extended his heartfelt appreciation to all dignitaries and athletes present: "Your presence today has not only added glory to the history of CISM but also strengthens the bonds among member nations, promoting the ideals of peace through sport as reflected in CISM’s motto: Friendship Through Sport."

General Nkambi concluded with a message of commitment: "With the continued support of Tanzanian authorities, we remain steadfast in advancing our participation in CISM activities, developing sports infrastructure, and preparing for future international competitions. Let us carry forward the spirit of today’s celebration with enthusiasm, living up to the CISM motto - Friendship Through Sport."

(Source: Tanzanian Delegation to CISM)