By Staff Writer
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Saturday, August 1, 2026: Stanbic Bank Tanzania and the Chinese Enterprise Association (Tanzania) have once again joined forces to promote business and community ties through the 13th Annual China Enterprises Basketball Tournament, which officially opened on Saturday at Don Bosco Grounds, Oysterbay.
The Bank announced a TZS 30 million sponsorship for this year’s tournament and also fielded its own team in the competition, underscoring its long-term commitment to the Chinese business community in Tanzania.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ester Manase, Head of Corporate & Investment Banking at Stanbic Bank Tanzania, said the sponsorship reflects the Bank’s commitment to meaningful engagement that extends well beyond banking. "Over the years, this tournament has been one of our most valued platforms for engaging the Chinese community in Tanzania because strong partnerships are built through shared experiences, not transactions alone."
"Our TZS 30 million sponsorship is about more than funding a competition. By taking part as both sponsor and competitor, we are demonstrating that our engagement is genuine and enduring," she added.
The tournament was officially declared open by Hon. Gerson Msigwa, Government Spokesperson and Permanent Secretary from the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports. The event was attended by Her Excellency Chen Mingjian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Tanzania, Mr. Jiang Yuntao, Chairman of Chinese Enterprise Association (Tanzania), senior government officials, and business leaders.
Hon. Msigwa said sports remain one of the most powerful tools for building friendship and mutual understanding between nations. "China and Tanzania enjoy a long-standing comprehensive strategic partnership. Our cooperation covers infrastructure, trade, tourism, education, sports, and culture. Events like this today are among the strongest bonds of friendship and cooperation between the people of Tanzania and our friends from China."
H.E. Ambassador Chen Mingjian commended Stanbic Bank’s sustained support. "The relationship between China and Tanzania is deep-rooted, and it grows stronger through moments like these, where sport unites us in a spirit of goodwill and mutual respect. I commend Stanbic Bank for its consistent support of this tournament over the years," she said.
Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Mr. Jiang Yuntao expressed appreciation to the Government and the Embassy for their continued support. "Over the years, this basketball tournament has become an important platform for unity, cooperation, and team spirit among Chinese enterprises in Tanzania. It is also an opportunity for us to integrate with the local community," Mr. Jiang said.
The 8-day tournament will run from August 1 to August 8, 2026. Matches are scheduled for Saturday August 1, Sunday August 2, Tuesday August 4, Thursday August 6, Friday August 7, and Saturday August 8 at Don Bosco Court. The finals and closing ceremony will be held on Saturday, August 8. Each team may register up to 16 players and games will be played under FIBA rules.
