By 
The Zambian government has initiated discussions with China to boost technical cooperation aimed at revitalizing two major sports infrastructures—the Levy Mwanawasa and National Heroes Stadiums.
On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, Minister of Sports and Youth Elvis Nkandu met with Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Han Jing at his office to discuss strategies for enhancing collaboration in sports, arts, and youth development.
The meeting is a continuation of the 60-year friendship between Zambia and China, which has been characterized by mutual respect and cooperation.
Nkandu highlighted the importance of the ongoing discussions, which primarily focused on the rehabilitation of the two iconic sports venues.
He expressed optimism that the collaboration could lead to the successful revitalization of the stadiums, either through government technical cooperation or by engaging in Public Private Partnerships (PPP).
“The rehabilitation of Levy Mwanawasa and National Heroes stadiums is essential for ensuring that Zambia can continue to host both international and national sporting events,” Nkandu said.
“This collaboration will play a key role in advancing sports development across the country,” he added.
In addition to sports infrastructure, Nkandu and Han discussed plans for establishing a national arts centre.
The proposed centre would serve as a hub for artistic expression and innovation, contributing to the growth of Zambia’s arts sector. This initiative follows a recent groundbreaking ceremony at the University of Zambia.
Read More: Zambian premier league transfer window opens
Another key topic of discussion was youth development, particularly the Graduate Empowerment Programme.
Nkandu explained that the programme was designed to provide an exit strategy for youths trained at Zambia’s 23 youth resource centres.
“This meeting exemplifies the growing partnership between Zambia and China,” Nkandu stated.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration and exploring new opportunities for cooperation in sports, arts, and youth development.”
The Zambian government is hopeful that these ongoing discussions with China will lead to tangible support for the country’s infrastructure projects and contribute to the overall development of sports and arts in Zambia.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments