By Prosper Makene
The 13th Annual China Enterprises Basketball Tournament tipped off on Saturday at Don Bosco Grounds, Oysterbay, with organisers saying the event has become a key platform for fostering unity and team spirit among Chinese enterprises in Tanzania.
Mr. Jiang Yuntao, Chairman of Chinese Enterprise Association (Tanzania), said the tournament now serves as more than just competition. “Over the years, this basketball tournament has become an important platform for unity, cooperation, and team spirit among Chinese enterprises in Tanzania. It is also an opportunity for us to integrate with the local community,” Mr. Jiang said.
The 8-day tournament, running from August 1 to August 8, 2026, was officially declared open by Gerson Msigwa, Government Spokesperson and Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Permanent Secretary. The ceremony was also attended by Her Excellency Chen Mingjian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Tanzania, and representatives of major Chinese-funded companies.
Msigwa emphasized the role of sports in diplomacy. “China and Tanzania enjoy a long-standing comprehensive strategic partnership. Events like this today are among the strongest bonds of friendship and cooperation between the people of Tanzania and our friends from China,” he said.
H.E. Ambassador Chen Mingjian praised the tournament for strengthening people-to-people ties. “The relationship between China and Tanzania is deep-rooted, and it grows stronger through moments like these, where sport unites us in a spirit of goodwill and mutual respect,” she said.
Stanbic Bank Tanzania also reaffirmed its support with a TZS 30 million sponsorship and fielded its own team in the competition. Ester Manase, Head of Corporate & Investment Banking, said the Bank’s participation shows commitment beyond business. “By taking part as both sponsor and competitor, we are demonstrating that our engagement is genuine and enduring,” she said.
According to organisers, matches will be played on Saturday August 1, Sunday August 2, Tuesday August 4, Thursday August 6, Friday August 7, and Saturday August 8_ at Don Bosco Court. The finals and closing ceremony will be held on Saturday, August 8. Each team may register up to 16 players and games will be played under FIBA rules.
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