INTERVIEW. “I wish the world knew that Tanzania has a lot of talent” – Anthony De Souza

Tanzania Badminton Association.

The General Secretary from Tanzania Badminton Association Anthony De Souza spoke candidly about the importance of badminton in Tanzania. 

Q: Importance of badminton in Tanzania?  
Playing badminton is good for physical wellbeing, it keeps you mentally alert and is a great way to meet new people. Badminton is not only for children, as one can play at any age. In this age of social media, gaming stations etc., it is a great way to get the children away from their devices and keep them physically active.

Q: Challenges facing this game?
Due to work commitments, our committee doesn’t get the opportunity to visit schools to promote the sport and encourage children to play.  Also, there aren’t many courts in Tanzania, as badminton is primarily an indoor sport and costs money to build & maintain.  Equipment is expensive (racquets, shoes etc.) and may be too expensive for people..

Q: Vision for the future of this game Tanzania?
I am passionate about badminton and would love to see it introduced in schools.  If the Badminton Association were able to provide schools with the equipment and train them once or twice a week, we may just find the next world champion right here in our wonderful country and we could put Tanzania on the map.

Q: What do you need from the government to support  this game?
It would be great if the Government could assist with providing a grant and assistance to build a national court, which would be accessible to every citizen in our country.