Basketball in Africa

By Frank Kimaro
NYERERE Cup basketball tournament throws off in Musoma today to celebrate 15 years since the death of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.
Organised under the flag of the Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF), the event aims to recognise Mwalimu's huge contribution towards national development.
TBF Secretary General Saleh Zonga said yesterday the winner will be awarded a trophy donated by Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) National Executive Committee member Phares Magesa.
"The tournament throws off tomorrow (today) in Musoma to honour Mwalimu Nyerere for good leadership and excellent service he rendered to the nation when he was the President of the United Republic of Tanzania," he said.
He added that the tournament will reach its climax on October 14, this year when the participating teams will tour his grave and clean its surroundings.
Zonga named teams taking part as Profile from Mwanza, Mwembeni 1, Mwembeni 2 and Makoko -- all from Musoma. Dar es Salaam will be represented by JKT.
On his side, former TBF Vice-President Magesa said the event has great importance to the nation and that's why he decided to donate the trophy to keep Mwalimu Nyerere's name alive.
He said apart from honouring the Father of the Nation, sports also play a great role in developing youth in the country. "We have witnessed sports, especially basketball, creating employment to many youths in the country.
Personally, I was a sportsman and I will remain a sportsman forever, ready to support sports whenever it is possible," he said.