NSSF reiterates commitment to support athletics development

By Correspondent
The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) has reiterated its commitment to support various sports activities across the country in a bid to increase the country’s participation in international sports event.
NSSF which is the main sponsor for Rock City Marathon 2013 among other sponsors including Africa Barrick Gold (ABG) Precision Air, Airtel through Airtel Money, Bank M, PPF, Nyanza Bottlers, New Mwanza Hotel, Sahara Communications and Umoja Switch, is now keen to collaborate with Athletics Tanzania leaders to boost athletics in the country.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam at the weekend shortly after handing over a 15m/- dummy cheque for sponsorship of the Rock City Marathon 2013 organized by Capital Plus International, the NSSF Principal Public Relations Officer Juma Kintu called on AT leaders to discuss with NSSF on how best they can collaborate to revive athletics in Tanzania.
“It is time we work closely to support growth of this sports which is almost dying. The country has potentials of doing better in international athletics. NSSF is ready to support realization of athletics revival in the country. I urge AT leaders to come to us and we will discuss on the best way forward,” he said.

Commenting about the support, NSSF’s Acting Principal Public Relations and Customer services Manager Theopista Mheta said the support has been geared towards promoting domestic athletes, which is among other sporting activities supported by the Fund.

“NSSF greatly recognise the importance of sports in promoting our domestic tourism but at the same time this opportunity can also be used in developing new talents in athletics, that’s why we have proudly decided to support this year’s Rock City Marathon edition,” said Mheta.

Capital Plus International (CPI) Public Relations and Media Manager Geoffrey Nangai, who received the cheque on behalf of organizers, applauded NSSF for their support and urged other companies to chip in their support and be part of this athletics transformation drive.

“The support will enable us improve our preparations for the event whose standards has been improving for the past four years. Apart from helping to promote domestic tourism, the event brings opportunity for athletics body to identify potential athletes who can be natured to represent Tanzania in international competitions,” Nangai said.

He mentioned that this year’s Rock City Marathon edition scheduled to take place at the CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza on 27^th of October 2013, will include races like 21 Km -Half marathon, 5 Km -Fun race (Classic for all and Corporate), 3 Km -Disabled race, 3 Km –Elderly and 2 Km-Children (7-10 years).