Gov’t calls on private sector to tap rural sports talents for national growth

The government has urged private organizations to tap into rural talent to help develop sports across the nation.

Youth, Sports, and Art Minister, Elvis Nkandu. called on sports federations to take the initiative rather than solely relying on government efforts to discover and support talent in the country.

Nkandu made these remarks in Lusaka on Monday while reviewing the progress of the turf replacement project at Heroes Stadium.

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“Does it mean that only the government has initiatives? Federations too should have their own,” he said, stressing the need for private sector involvement.

He urged federations to gather resources and venture into rural areas to identify and nurture talent.

“They should scout for athletes from all over Zambia, not just Lusaka,” he stated, expressing concern that sports talents in rural areas remain underexposed.

“Exposure has also been a challenge for athletes in rural areas,” Nkandu noted.

Commenting on the Football Association of Zambia’s (FAZ) decision to renew coach Avram Grant’s contract, Nkandu clarified that the government would not interfere.

“Firing or hiring a coach is not our responsibility,” he said, adding that the government would ensure any outstanding payments to the coach were settled.

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