Tanzanian fans thrilled as VAR is officially unveiled ahead of new season

Tanzanian fans thrilled as VAR is officially unveiled ahead of new season

Mark Kinyanjui 16:21 - 16.07.2024

VAR will be applied to full effect next season in the Tanzanian Premier League following its unveiling by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa on Monday.

Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has enthusiastically endorsed the upcoming introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in Tanzania’s Premier League, set to commence next season.

VAR has been introduced in Tanzanian football as part of the Football Association’s efforts to significantly improve match officiation by reducing human error.

Majaliwa made these remarks during the official unveiling of Azam Media Limited’s Mobile Production Vehicles for Outside Broadcasting at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Monday. 

“With VAR, the efficiency of our referees will undoubtedly improve, ensuring transparent and fair decision-making,” stated Prime Minister Majaliwa.

 “This achievement enhances our nation’s reputation, ensuring players and fans alike can trust the outcomes of matches, regardless of the level of competition.”

He highlighted the importance of VAR implementation in the context of Tanzania's preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Kenya and Uganda.

The Prime Minister underscored the positive impact of VAR on football integrity, noting the initiative will eliminate human errors and enhance the credibility of league matches.

He also recognized the partnership with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), expressing optimism that Tanzania’s investment in VAR technology will attract more international football events to the country.

“Currently, we have a good partnership with FIFA and CAF. They have brought different games here, and I believe that with this investment, we should expect them to bring more games to be played in the country,” said Majaliwa.

He commended Azam Media Limited for its pivotal role in introducing VAR technology and for its significant investment in sports broadcasting. This investment positions Tanzania to independently host major events such as AFCON, with Azam poised to broadcast matches live.

Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports Hamis Mwinjuma credited Azam Media for professionalizing sports in Tanzania, particularly in boxing, through comprehensive live coverage of competitions.

Azam Media Limited CEO Patrick Kahemele provided further details on the VAR implementation, announcing that in collaboration with the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), three sets of VAR will be operational next season to support VAR in 60 percent of matches.

This technological advancement aims to enhance the quality and fairness of football officiation in Tanzania’s Premier League.

In addition to VAR, Kahemele highlighted the launch of Azam Sports 4 HD, a new channel that will broadcast Premier League matches and feature live coverage of European leagues such as La Liga, Serie A, and Bundesliga.