‘No minor sports’, Hichilema proclaims, welcomes youths from 47 countries to athletics championships

President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed government’s commitment to treat all sports disciplines equally.

Speaking during the official launch of the combined Under-18 and Under-20 Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) in Ndola on Friday, Hichilema said all sports disciplines were equal and deserve the same support.

Hichilema said he was encouraged to see the huge numbers of young people who have traveled from over 47 countries to participate in the youth championship which have attracted over 700 athletes.

He said government was proud of all the participants in the championships which promote discipline and health lifestyles.

“I want to say to the leaders of athletics in this country that this government has taken a decision that there is no minor sport. All sporting disciplines are important and we shall support, the government will support all of these fairly and equitable.

“We indeed believe that a sporting body is a more complete body than the one that does not participate in sports. It doesn’t just develop the body, it develops the brain as well. The way we see things and the way we think,” he said.

President Hichilema also urged the visiting athletes and officials to extend their stay in Zambia and experience the hospitality of Zambians.

Meanwhile, Sports Youth and Arts Minister, Elvis Nkandu, hailed President Hichilema for his commitment to support all sports equally.

Nkandu said President Hichilema’s support to his Ministry has shown the presidents determination to contribute to the growth of sports in Zambia.

Zambia Athletics President Elias Mpondela thanked President Hichilema and his government for approving the hosting of the youth athletics championships in Zambia.

Mpondela said athletics is crucial as it has the potential to create champions who can make a huge impact at a global stage.

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