By The Arusha News Reporter.
Alphonce Simbu of Arusha has delivered Tanzania’s first-ever gold medal on the global stage, a triumph that has been hailed as a proud moment in the nation’s athletics history. Fans across the country erupted in celebration as the long-distance runner crossed the finish line in spectacular fashion in Tokyo, Japan, last Sunday. Simbu of Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF), who had previously claimed bronze at the 2017 World Championships and silver at the 2025 Boston Marathon, described the victory as the greatest achievement of his career. “This is the moment I have worked for all my life,” he said after the race.
Veteran athletes and coaches were quick to highlight the wider significance of the win. Tanzania’s former marathon hero Juma Ikangaa said Simbu’s feat should serve as a catalyst for long-term investment in athletics. “Simbu has made the country proud. Now we must build on this momentum and start serious preparations for the 2028 Olympics,” he told The Arusha News. Echoing the call, Tanzania’s former marathon and 10,00-metre world record holder Gidmas Shahanga said that the victory showcased the nation’s vast but untapped potential. “We need to seriously develop athletics to achieve what we truly deserve,” he said. Dar Runners coach John Manyama noted that Simbu’s success had opened new doors
Alphonce Simbu brings joy, hope to Tanzanians for Tanzanian athletes. “This is a signal that our runners can win medals at the highest level. We must not waste time—training camps for the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics should begin immediately,” he stressed. For fans, the victory was nothing short of historic. Rashidi Kazumba, an athletics enthusiast from Dar es Salaam told, that he closely followed the World Championships in Tokyo and was inspired by Simbu’s determination. “The photo finish was absolutely electrifying. This is a proud moment for Tanzania,” he said. “Simbu’s gold is more than just a personal milestone—it is a beacon of hope for Tanzania’s athletics signaling a new chapter in the nation’s long-distance running legacy,” he added.
