By Staff Writer
Zambia has been awarded the right to host the September 2019 SADC municipal games in Lusaka under the auspices of the Zambia Local Authorities Sports Association (ZALASA).
This is contained in the letter to ZALASA signed by Thembi Dlamini, the Secretary General of the Southern Africa Inter- Municipal Sports Association (SAIMSA).
The pronouncement has elated ZALASA President Christopher Shakafuswa who has acknowledged the overwhelming commitment ZALASA received from the government and other stakeholders during the bidding process.
” As we welcome the announcement, l hasten to recognise the support and direction the government has rendered to ZALASA on this score through the Ministries of Local Government and Sport, especially for granting ZALASA permission to lodge the bid. This is an indication of the trust the government has in us in meeting set goals,” Shakafuswa emphatically pointed out upon receipt of the award notification.
He also appreciated the support from the councils, Ministry of Health and Zambia Police, among other entities, before and during the inspection of facilities in Lusaka by the SAIMSA delegation.
Similary Shakafuswa has praised the Sam Rameetse led SAIMSA executive for giving Zambia the opportunity to host the 2019 event.
Going forward the ZALASA President has called for total commitment and self sacrifice from all the stakeholders involved in the preparatory schedules to ensure that Zambia delivered a successful event next year in line with the government policy on the development of sports.
“Now that it is official we are hosting next year’s event, the focus should be on ensuring that come September 2019, Zambia makes a quality delivery of the games in every aspect. However, to achieve this objective it is imperative that we work as a team in executing this national cause,” Shakafuswa reminded the organising committee.
He reiterated ZALASA’s assurance to partner with the corporate world in order to supplement the government’s goodwill extended to ZALASA.
Around 100 municipalities are expected to participate in the 2019 event in netball, soccer, athletics, chess, darts and swimming. Other desciplines include volleyball, fishing and table tennis.
Zambia side stepped Botswana in the two- horse race to win the bidding rights.
This is according to media statement by ZALASA Sub Committee Publicity Officer Roy Kuseka.
