Tanzania to hire Cuban boxing coaches for national team
DODOMA: THE government is set to hire boxing instructors from Cuba to enhance the skills of the national team and train local coaches in a bold move to elevate Tanzania’s boxing standards.
The strategic decision aims to integrate the renowned Cuban boxing style into Tanzania’s training regimen, preparing athletes for major upcoming global competitions.
The plans were unveiled by Lukelo Willilo, the President of the Boxing Federation of Tanzania (BFT), during a recent working session with the Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports, Damas Ndumbaro in Dodoma.
According to Willilo the plan to hire Cuban coaches is part of a broader initiative to adopt the Cuban boxing style, which is renowned for its technical excellence, including superior footwork, precise striking and effective distance management.
This style has been championed by Cuban boxing legends such as Teofilo Stevenson and Felix Savon, who have made indelible marks in the sport.
Willilo emphasised that the initiative aligns with the Memorandum of Understanding between the governments of Cuba and Tanzania.
“The minister assured us of bringing in a foreign coach from Cuba to bolster boxing in Tanzania and help us develop our own boxing identity,” said Willilo, who also serves as a board member of the African Boxing Federation (AFBC).
“By incorporating Cuban boxing techniques and expertise, Tanzania aims to significantly improve its competitive edge on the international stage.
The arrival of Cuban coaches is expected to bring fresh perspectives and refined skills to Tanzanian boxing, paving the way for future successes in global arenas.
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“It is crucial for us to cultivate a distinctive boxing identity and philosophy from the grassroots up”.
The meeting also addressed Tanzania’s performance in previous Olympic Games and explored strategies to improve results not only at the Olympics but also in the upcoming Commonwealth and African Championships.
Representatives from athletics and judo were present, highlighting a broader commitment to enhancing sports across various disciplines.
The federation president was accompanied by BFT Secretary General, Makore Mashaga, Willilo discussed preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the African Championships in Cairo 2027, and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
The session also included Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports Hamisi Mwinjuma, Permanent Secretary Gerson Msigwa, Acting Director of Sports Ally Mayay and other officials from the Ministry.
