Promotion of sport for children and youth with disabilities by Tanzania sport associations: the analysis of policies, attitudes, programmes, results and prospects.

The purpose of this study was to examine the promotion of sport for children and youth with disabilities by Tanzania National Sport Associations. The study examined how sports for the disabled are promoted by National Sport Associations, the problems facing the promotion, attitudes possessed by sport associations and methods used to promote sports for the disabled. The study was conducted in eleven (11) National Sport Associations with twenty two officials (22) responded, four (4) institutions of children and youth with disabilities with twelve (12) sport teachers and twelve (12) athletes, two (2) officials from TOC and National Sports Council. Data were collected through questionnaire, interviews, documentation and observation. The data obtained were displayed in tables for analysis purposes. Percentages were used in the data analysis and discussion. Findings of the study indicated that very few national sports associations involve themselves in promotion of sport for the disabled. It was also revealed that among the problems beset the promotion of sport for the disabled are lack of facilities and equipments, lack of sport teachers and lack of funds. On the other hand the findings revealed that some associations, parents and sponsors possess negative attitude towards sport for the disabled. Furthermore it was found that among the methods used to promote sport for the disabled include organizing Seminars, Bonanzas, and inviting the mass media during competitions. It was established that if athletes with disabilities are well supported they benefit a lot in sport programmes. On the basis of the findings and conclusion, it is therefore recommended that the government through the Ministry of Labour, Youth Development and Sports, National Sports Associations and individuals to support the National sport policy towards assisting children and youth with disabilities to participate in sport.