Joseph Isangura
The Chief of Defence Forces, General Jacob John Mkunda, has issued a call to action for the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) to intensify training efforts and boost preparations ahead of two major international military sports events:
the East African Community (EAC) Military Games and the globally renowned CISM World Military Games.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the CDF Cup Tournament at the Azam Complex in Chamazi, Dar es Salaam, General Mkunda commended the participating units but stressed that the tournament was a stepping stone rather than a final destination.
“The CDF Cup fosters unity and strengthens cooperation among our military branches,” he noted. “But now, we must prepare to represent our country with pride and determination on the regional and global stage.”
The CDF Cup, an internal sports tournament for the military, aims to encourage physical fitness, team cohesion, and discipline among service members. It also plays a critical role in scouting and grooming talent for larger competitions.
General Mkunda emphasized that preparation for the EAC Military Games, which bring together forces from member states of the East African Community, is vital—not only for performance but for regional solidarity. Similarly, he described participation in the Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) Games as a matter of national prestige and a chance for Tanzania to demonstrate military excellence through sport.
“Let this be a wake-up call,” said General Mkunda. “We are not preparing for fun—we are preparing to compete with nations that have invested heavily in training, strategy, and infrastructure. We must match that energy.”
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The sentiment was echoed by Major General Ibrahim Mhona, the TPDF’s Chief of Training and Operations, who urged athletes and coaches to take their roles seriously and begin structured preparations immediately.
“Our athletes have shown promise, but to compete with the best, we need to improve our technical capabilities and provide athletes with early access to training and exposure,” Mhona said. He encouraged continued investment in sports infrastructure, specialized coaching, and performance monitoring.
The CISM Games, also referred to as the “Military Olympics,” feature participants from over 130 countries. It is one of the largest multi-sport events globally, second only to the Olympic Games in terms of scope and participation.
Over the years, the TPDF has increasingly recognized sports as a critical tool for promoting health, discipline, and unity—not just within its ranks but in broader society. The military has also collaborated with civil sports organizations, enabling soldiers to compete nationally and sometimes even professionally in athletics, boxing, and football.
