UDSM Athletes Carry University Pride into SHIMMUTA 2026 with Strong Start
By Dickens Dominic, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has made a promising start at the 2026 Tanzania Public Institutions Sports Federation (SHIMMUTA) Games in Morogoro, with its teams taking on competitors from public institutions across the country in football, men's and women's basketball, and men's and women's volleyball.
Beyond the competition, the games offer UDSM employees an opportunity to demonstrate their sporting talents, strengthen relationships with colleagues and promote a healthy, active lifestyle. Their participation also reflects the University's commitment to staff welfare, teamwork and institutional pride.
The teams' participation is coordinated by the University Sports Office, led by Noel Kiunsi, which oversees preparations and facilitates their engagement in the competition.
Speaking during a farewell session for staff members travelling to Morogoro, the Director of Social Services, Dr. Lulu Mahai, urged the athletes to approach the competition with determination, discipline and a strong sense of teamwork.
She emphasised that participation in sports goes beyond winning trophies, noting that regular physical activity supports employees' health, reduces stress and strengthens social relationships—factors that contribute to a healthier and more productive workforce.
“Sports promote health and well-being. They help reduce stress and improve physical and mental health. It is therefore important to continue participating in sporting activities because they contribute to the overall well-being of individuals and society,” said Dr. Mahai.
She encouraged the teams to use the tournament to showcase their abilities, interact with colleagues from other institutions and uphold the University's reputation through responsible conduct and good sportsmanship.
Dr. Mahai also conveyed the University's Management's expectation that the teams would build on previous achievements and return with more trophies. She urged them to remain confident, united and committed throughout the competition.
Beyond trophies: Building a healthier and more united workforce
For UDSM, participation in SHIMMUTA is also an investment in the well-being and development of its employees. Sporting activities provide a break from routine professional responsibilities while creating opportunities for staff from different academic and administrative units to interact, build friendships and work towards shared goals.
Football, basketball and volleyball demand communication, coordination, discipline and collective decision-making. These qualities extend beyond the playing field and are equally important in the workplace, where institutional performance depends on collaboration and shared responsibility.
The participation of both men's and women's teams in basketball and volleyball also demonstrates the University's commitment to providing sporting opportunities for employees with different talents and abilities.
As an institution whose core functions include teaching and learning, research and innovation, and knowledge exchange, UDSM recognises that achieving its mission also depends on a healthy, motivated and engaged workforce. Staff welfare and opportunities for personal development therefore remain important dimensions of institutional effectiveness.
As the SHIMMUTA 2026 Games continue, UDSM's teams will seek to maintain their competitive spirit and translate their preparations into strong performances.
For the employees representing the University, every match is an opportunity to demonstrate resilience, sporting ability and commitment while strengthening the bonds that unite colleagues beyond their daily professional duties.
Their participation sends a broader message: a strong university is built not only through academic and professional achievements but also through the health, talents, unity and well-being of its people.
Sports for Health, Teamwork and Well-being!