PM commends VAR introduction in PL

DAR ES SALAAM: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has hailed planned introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in Tanzania’s Premier League next season as a game-changer that will enhance match officiation by minimising human errors.

He made these remarks during the official unveiling of Azam Media Limited’s Mobile Production Vehicles for Outside Broadcasting, at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Monday.

Majaliwa emphasised that VAR implementation will elevate the standards of football in Tanzania, particularly as the country prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya and Uganda.

“With VAR, the efficiency of our referees will undoubtedly improve, ensuring transparent and fair decision-making,” he stated.

“This achievement enhances our nation’s reputation, ensuring players and fans alike can trust the outcomes of matches, regardless of the level of competition,” added Prime Minister Majaliwa, highlighting the positive impact on football integrity.

Recognising the partnership with FIFA and CAF, Majaliwa expressed optimism that Tanzania’s investment in VAR technology will attract more international football events to the country.

“Currently, we have good partnership with FIFA and CAF, they have brought here different games and I believe that with this investment, we should expect them to bring more games to be played in the country,” said Majaliwa.

Also read:State affirms use of VAR in Premier League

He commended Azam for its pivotal role in introducing VAR technology, which is expected to eliminate human errors and enhance the credibility of league matches.

He praised Azam Media for its significant investment in sports broadcasting, positioning Tanzania to independently host major events such as AFCON, with Azam poised to broadcast matches live.

He praised Azam Media Limited as a crucial partner in the government’s efforts to promote development in sports, culture and arts sectors.

Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports, Hamis Mwinjuma,  credited Azam Media for professionalising sports in Tanzania, particularly in boxing, through comprehensive live coverage of competitions.

In his remarks, Azam Media Limited CEO Patrick Kahemele outlined that in collaboration with the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), three sets of VAR will be operational next season to support VAR implementation in 60 per cent of matches.

This technological advancement aims to enhance the quality and fairness of football officiation in Tanzania’s Premier League.

Additionally, Kahemele highlighted the launch of Azam Sports 4 HD, a new channel that will not only broadcast Premier League matches but also feature live coverage of European leagues such as La Liga, Serie A, and Bundesliga.

Overall, the investments by Azam Media Limited are poised to significantly raise the profile of Tanzanian football and expand its broadcasting capabilities, paving the way for more international sporting events to be hosted in the country.