CISM honors Tanzanian President with Order of Merit and Honorary Membership

DAR ES SALAAM (TAN) - The International Military Sports Council (CISM) presented its highest distinction, the CISM Order of Merit (Grand Cordon), together with the title of Honorary Member, to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Tanzanian Defence Forces, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The ceremony took place at the State House in Dar es Salaam and was presided over by CISM Vice President for Africa, Maj Gen Abdullahi Maikano, on behalf of CISM President Col Nilton Rolim. These honors had been unanimously approved during the 79th CISM General Assembly and Congress held in Dar es Salaam in May 2024, but the presentation was postponed due to the President’s international commitments.

In his address, Major General Maikano praised Tanzania’s growing role in international military sports, stating: “Under your leadership, Tanzania’s presence in international competitions has grown stronger. We have had the honor of witnessing your athletes compete in various disciplines, achieving remarkable results that elevate the nation’s image and inspire the entire African continent.” He also underlined the President’s vision and commitment to both the armed forces and the development of military sport, while encouraging Tanzania to consider hosting future CISM World Championships in cross-country, boxing and basketball.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her gratitude to CISM and stressed that the distinction was not hers alone but belonged to all Tanzanians. She welcomed the idea of hosting future events and confirmed that her government would provide further information once preparations were advanced.

The event gathered high-ranking government and military officials, including Prime Minister Hon. Kasim Majaliwa, Minister of Defence Dr. Lawrance Tax, Speaker of the National Assembly Dr. Tulia Ackson, Chief Justice Hon. George Masaju, Minister of Sports Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, Chief of Defence Forces Gen Jacob John Mkunda, as well as Tanzanian athletes and CISM representatives from across Africa.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)