Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaaam swimmers shine at Africa Aquatics Zone III Championship
Students from the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School (AKMSS), Dar es Salaam delivered an exceptional performance as they proudly represented Tanzania at the Africa Aquatics Zone III Championship, held from 16–19 October at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya.
The event brought together over 300 swimmers from many African nations – including Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria, Benin, Burundi, Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, Uganda, Rwanda and Zimbabwe – making it one of the most significant regional competitions under Africa Aquatics. For many young athletes, Zone III serves as a vital stepping stone towards continental and global championships, raising the standard of swimming. For AKMSS, Dar es Salaam students, the championship was the perfect stage to extend their winning momentum following their recent dominance at the Morogoro Swimming Gala. The team embraced the challenge with confidence and returned home with medals and trophies reflecting both individual excellence and the strength of their training programmes.
“It has been an honour to represent my country,” said Grade 9 student Zainab Moosajee, who won a collection of gold, silver and bronze medals. “I have learnt how to focus and dedicate myself to swimming. I have also gained a lot of experience being part of a team and meeting new people."
Max Missokia, a Grade 8 student, delivered one of the standout results for Tanzania, earning multiple podium finishes across several events and earning a trophy for coming in second place for his age group. Grade 10 student Julius Missokia continued the medal streak with several silver and bronze wins, while Diploma Programme 1 swimmers Enrico Barretto and Filbertha Demello also added to Tanzania’s tally. Filbertha achieved an outstanding medal haul and earned her own second-place trophy in her category.
“This was my fourth time competing in the championship, and I have learnt that talent alone is not enough – you have to work hard to make it count,” Max said. “The high level of competition pushed me to give my best, and standing on the podium representing my school and country was truly meaningful. I am excited and motivated for the upcoming competitions in February 2026.”
The results highlight the rising potential of young Tanzanian athletes and the growing influence of well-structured sporting programmes in shaping future champions. This success also reflects the school's commitment to nurturing talent through a culture that values both academic and athletic excellence. With mentorship and access to international competitions, the school continues to empower students to excel in sports and beyond.
Congratulations to the team for raising the bar for Tanzanian swimming!
Photos (top to bottom):
- Grade 10 student Julius Missokia swimming through the lanes during the competition.
- Grade 8 student Max Missokia ready in his lane, poising to start the race.
- Swimmers posing with the first-place trophy and medals earned at the Morogoro Swimming Gala.
