DAR ES SALAAM: Tanzania can further strengthen its social fabric by sustaining peace, tranquillity and national unity, with sport playing a central and constructive role, according to athletics legend Filbert Bayi.
In a positive reflection on national progress, Bayi highlighted the close link between stability and sporting development, describing peace as the foundation upon which talent, opportunity and national pride are built.
“Sport plays a very significant role in promoting peace and unity, not only in Tanzania but globally. It is not just about games — it creates employment, provides services and builds brotherhood among people,” he said.
He noted that Tanzania’s enduring stability has enabled athletes to train, compete and excel with confidence, allowing the country to nurture talent and maintain a visible presence on the international stage.
“Peace gives athletes the freedom to focus on training and competition without fear. It allows families and communities to support them fully,” he said.
Bayi described sport as a natural bridge across social, cultural and economic divides, bringing people together through shared values of respect, discipline and teamwork.
“When people come together through sport, they build friendship and understanding. This strengthens unity in society,” he said.
He added that these values extend beyond the field of play, contributing to more cohesive and harmonious communities.
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On the global stage, Bayi pointed to platforms such as the Olympic Games as powerful symbols of unity, where nations come together despite political or historical differences.
He also reflected on moments in history where sport has reinforced shared values of justice and equality, underlining its broader role in promoting peaceful coexistence.
Beyond its social impact, Bayi highlighted sport’s economic contribution, noting its role in creating employment, attracting tourism and enhancing a country’s international profile — benefits that are strengthened in a stable environment.
“Sport contributes to the economy through tourism, sponsorship and job creation. These benefits grow in a peaceful and stable society,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of investing in young people through sport, describing it as a platform for instilling discipline, respect and teamwork — qualities essential for sustaining unity and national development.
“Young people learn values through sport that help them become responsible citizens who contribute to peace,” he said.
Bayi insisted that peace and sport are mutually reinforcing forces that underpin resilient and inclusive societies.
“Peace is the foundation of everything we strive to achieve as a nation, and sport is one of the strongest tools we have to preserve and strengthen that peace,” he said.
