Tanzania's Minister of State in the President's Office, Public Service Management and Good Governance, Ridhiwani Kikwete, has urged public servants to transfer the enthusiasm, discipline, and teamwork demonstrated during sports competitions to their workplaces. This, he believes, will improve the efficiency and quality of services provided to citizens. Kikwete made the call while closing the 40th edition of the Federation of Tanzania Sports Associations of Ministries and Government Departments (SHIMIWI) Games in Kilimanjaro Region.
The SHIMIWI Games brought together more than 3,400 athletes from various government institutions, providing an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen cooperation, and participate in social activities. Kikwete stressed that sports play an important role in promoting the physical and mental well-being of public servants and preparing them to effectively carry out their responsibilities. He commended participants for contributing more than Sh24 million to support vulnerable groups, including children with special needs and cancer patients receiving treatment at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC).
In addition to acknowledging the success of the games, Kikwete commended the Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner's Office, the SHIMIWI Executive Committee, and other stakeholders for successfully organizing the event. He also called for challenges encountered this year to be addressed to improve future competitions. The Minister's remarks were echoed by SHIMIWI Chairman Daniel Mwalusamba, who urged employers to continue giving public servants opportunities to participate in sports and promote a culture of physical exercise in the workplace.
Mwalusamba believes that beyond improving health, sports should serve as a catalyst for discipline, accountability, and greater efficiency among public servants in carrying out their duties. He emphasized the importance of incorporating sports and physical activity into daily life, not just for physical well-being but also for mental health and team building. The SHIMIWI Games have provided a platform for public servants to come together, build relationships, and showcase their athletic prowess.
The games concluded with Arusha Region expected to host SHIMIWI 2027, following Kilimanjaro's hosting of this year's edition. This will provide an opportunity for public servants from different regions to come together, compete, and build relationships. The event has demonstrated the power of sports in bringing people together and promoting a sense of community and camaraderie.
The SHIMIWI Games have been a resounding success, with over 3,400 athletes participating in various sports competitions. The event has not only promoted physical activity but also raised funds for vulnerable groups. The contributions made by participants will go a long way in supporting children with special needs and cancer patients receiving treatment at KCMC.
As the games come to a close, public servants are expected to carry forward the spirit of teamwork, discipline, and enthusiasm demonstrated during the SHIMIWI Games. By doing so, they can improve the efficiency and quality of services provided to citizens, ultimately contributing to the country's development. The Minister's call to action is expected to resonate with public servants, who will strive to embody the values of the SHIMIWI Games in their workplaces.
Key points
- Minister Ridhiwani Kikwete urges public servants to adopt the teamwork and discipline shown during SHIMIWI Games in their workplaces.
