MWANZA Region has spelt out measures to lift sports at all level as the region bids to have at least two strong teams in the Mainland Premier League in the coming seasons.

The Mwanza Regional Commissioner, Evarist Ndikilo said here that in order to execute the plans, he has directed the Chairman of Mwanza Regional Football Association (MZFA) Jackson Songora, to call a stakeholders meeting mid next month.

He said in the meeting, stakeholders will discuss key issues and in the end come up with plans on how to develop sports in the region. They will also evaluate Toto Africans performance in the top flight league and come up with the best solutions to ensure that the team avoids relegation.

The RC told journalists during a special occasion to bid farewell to the year 2012 and usher in New Year 2013 that football is fast becoming huge business world-wide, saying Mwanza should not be left behind and stay as observers, instead he said the region should tap into the opportunities available in sports.

"Our teams are failing to secure sponsorship contracts and this has forced them to become less competitive due to inability to enter in the market, we should ask ourselves why other teams especially those in Dar es Salaam are getting sponsors left right and centre," he said, while challenging MRFA to ensure more teams from Mwanza are taking part in the top flight league.

"I've told them to make sure that Toto Africans remains in the Premier League, while also making sure Pamba FC return to the league next season," he said. He said stakeholders have a role to play in the development of sports in the region and involving them will be important because they probably have different ideas, agenda or objectives which should be put together for the best results.

"Sometimes you don't really need money to do something. For instance, anyone has an opportunity to encourage young children to take part in sports not necessarily football. You don't have to be a celebrity to put the message across.

There are people who value your input without looking at who you are," he said. He said the region was dreaming of seeing sports developing from all levels with clubs in the region becoming more competitive against other regions.