NMB Bank’s sponsorship ushers in new era for Mapinduzi Cup

By Business Insider Reporter

A landmark sponsorship agreement between NMB Bank and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ) has set the Mapinduzi Cup on a new transformative path, turning one of East Africa’s most symbolic football tournaments into a strategic sports and economic platform with international appeal.

For years, the Mapinduzi Cup has proudly celebrated the Zanzibar Revolution while showcasing local and regional football excellence. Yet, like many African tournaments, it has faced challenges linked to fluctuating sponsorship support and unpredictable investment.

Finalized in Unguja on Sunday, the new NMB Bank sponsorship partnership represents a major recalibration of the tournament’s economic prospects, anchoring the Mapinduzi Cup with robust financial backing, improved planning stability and enhanced commercial appeal within East Africa’s growing sports economy.

Under the agreement, the competition now officially carries the name NMB Mapinduzi Cup, with organisers celebrating it as the most structured, valuable, and impactful sponsorship in the tournament’s history.

Patriotic milestone, fair play awards

For Zanzibar’s Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Riziki Pembe Juma, the deal represents far more than sponsorship support.

She described it as a patriotic milestone and a powerful demonstration of unity between government and the private sector in deepening Tanzania’s sporting future.

“NMB has demonstrated great commitment. This sponsorship does not just transform the image of the tournament; it is the biggest and most meaningful support ever extended to Mapinduzi Cup,” she said, affirming the Government’s resolve to strengthen the partnership for national benefit.

The sponsorship also introduces a stronger incentive framework, highlighted by enhanced Fair Play Awards across all stages of the tournament. The initiative is designed to promote discipline, integrity and professional conduct, while motivating players to compete at higher standards.

BEYOND FOOTBALL: NMB Bank’s lucrative sponsorship is reinventing the Mapinduzi Cup as East Africa’s next must-watch football spectacle – a landmark investment poised to reshape Zanzibar’s sports economy, boost tourism, and elevate the Isles’ global brand.

As title sponsor, NMB will work closely with the tournament’s organizing committee on key aspects of preparation and event management, including spearheading the Fair Play Awards programme.

Under the arrangement, each Fair Play Award in the group stages will be accompanied by a TSh 500,000 cash reward. The incentive rises to TSh 1 million in the semifinals and peaks at TSh 2 million in the final – reinforcing professionalism while recognizing exemplary behavior both on and off the pitch.

A boost for tourism, economy and national branding

The NMB Mapinduzi Cup is not just a football highlight; it is a powerful tourism and economic engine.

With stronger financial backing, Zanzibar stands to benefit significantly through increased sports tourism, hospitality activity, media attention and economic participation.

Hotels, transport operators, local businesses and tourism services are expected to register increased activity, reinforcing the tournament’s role as an economic stimulant.

Meanwhile, Tanzania’s international sporting image equally gains momentum as the event continues to attract regional and invited teams, steadily positioning Zanzibar as a premier sporting destination.

Private sector power in national development

NMB’s Head of Branch Network and Sales, Donatus Richard, said the sponsorship aligns with the bank’s commitment to supporting national progress.

“This partnership goes beyond supporting a football tournament. It is about promoting Zanzibar, projecting Tanzania internationally, and demonstrating the positive role the private sector can play in nation building,” he said, noting NMB’s long-standing association with the tournament. Tournament Organizing Committee Chairman Machano Makame Haji and Secretary Rashid Said Suleiman hailed the deal as a turning point for Zanzibar sports development, particularly football, saying it guarantees financial resilience and drives sustainable programme improvements.

NMB Mapinduzi Cup 2026: Participating Teams

The 2026 NMB Mapinduzi Cup will feature a total of 10 competitive teams from Tanzania and the East African region, showcasing top-tier football talent and regional collaboration:

Tanzania Mainland Clubs:

Yanga SC
One of the country’s most decorated clubs, known for its passionate fan base.
Simba SC
A powerhouse of Tanzanian football, consistently competing at national and continental levels.
Azam FC
Recognized for modern infrastructure and strong youth development programmes.
Singida Black Stars
Emerging as a competitive force with a growing fan following.
TRA United
Bringing dynamism and competitive spirit from Tanzania’s mainland league.