TPDC sports bonanza unites Mtwara schools and uncovers budding talents
What you need to know:
- Ziwani Secondary School's football team clinched victory after a nail-biting penalty shootout, defeating Mangamba Secondary School 4–3 following a goalless draw in regular time.
Mtwara. Head of Public Relations and Communications at TPDC, Marie Msellemu, has emphasised the importance of community unity and youth engagement during a lively multi-sport bonanza held in Mtwara Mikindani Municipality, where students appealed for continued opportunities to showcase their talents.
Representing Director Mussa Mkame, Ms Msellemu addressed students, teachers, and guests at Mangamba Secondary School on 23 May 2025 during the bonanza organised by the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC).
The event brought together four secondary schools—Mangamba, Msimbati, Naliendele and Ziwani—all situated near key gas infrastructure in the region.
“This initiative is about more than sport. We are nurturing brotherhood and mutual understanding wherever the gas pipeline passes. You are our neighbours—and more importantly, protectors of this infrastructure. TPDC is proud to invest in your growth,” Msellemu said.
Ziwani Secondary School's football team clinched victory after a nail-biting penalty shootout, defeating Mangamba Secondary School 4–3 following a goalless draw in regular time.
The closely contested match drew enthusiastic support from both sides, highlighting the competitive spirit and camaraderie fostered by the event.
Football team leader at Ziwani Secondary, Abduli Yusuphu, celebrated the win with humility and called for more such initiatives. “We are thrilled to win today—usually our matches end in a draw, so this is a special day for us. We urge TPDC to continue with these bonanzas. Many students have talent but no platform. This event has given us visibility.”
Mangamba student Jeriani Mchopa, winner of the spirited chicken-chasing contest, also expressed gratitude and excitement. “I’m happy I won again—it’s not my first time! I urge TPDC to continue holding these events so that more of us can be discovered.”
His schoolmate, Abdulli Uwesu, echoed this sentiment, noting, “It was a fair match. Penalties are unpredictable. We ask TPDC not to end it here. We’re committed to safeguarding the gas infrastructure, and events like this keep us engaged.”
Headmaster of Mangamba Secondary School, Saidi Mpate, expressed sincere appreciation to TPDC for selecting his school as host.
“Sport fosters unity, promotes health, and even leads to employment. I encourage students to embrace it wholeheartedly. Let us continue these events—and perhaps extend them to a full day next time. Also, let’s not forget to protect our environment while we’re at it.”
The bonanza, which combined athletic prowess with community engagement, reflects TPDC’s broader strategy of strengthening ties with communities situated near vital energy infrastructure. Students, teachers, and organisers alike left the event calling for more frequent interactions that blend talent development with social cohesion.
