The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts joined Sport in Action (SIA), the Wallace Group of Universities, and the Duke of Edinburgh Project to celebrate 20 years of an inspiring partnership that has transformed sports and youth development in Zambia.

Representing the Ministry, Permanent Secretary Mr. Kangwa Chileshe delivered a keynote address on behalf of Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, highlighting the remarkable achievements of the SIA-Wallace Group partnership since it was established in 2005.

For the past two decades, the partnership has:

Built and renovated over 20 sports facilities including basketball, netball, and volleyball courts in Lusaka and Kabwe, as well as the swimming pool at David Kaunda STEM School.

Invested K15 million in sports infrastructure and equipment that benefits communities and sports associations.

Empowered young Zambians to become athletes, coaches, referees, and community leaders, producing stars like Kelvin Mulenga (U18 Basketball), Catherine Nkandu (U21 Netball), and FIFA Referee Patricia Banda.

Boosted the local economy through Zambian contractors and generated K3 million annually in sports tourism from international volunteers.

Provided leadership and entrepreneurship opportunities through programs like Girls in Action and the Duke of Edinburgh Project.

As a Ministry, we are proud to recognize and support initiatives like this that change lives, strengthen communities, and ontribute to national development through sports.

“The Government commends Sport in Action and the Wallace Group for their outstanding contribution to grassroots sports and youth empowerment. Such initiatives are shaping a better Zambia and a brighter tomorrow for our children,” said PS Kangwa Chileshe.

He congratulated Sport in Action, the Wallace Group, and the Duke of Edinburgh Project on the 20 year milestone and reaffirmed government’s commitment to continue supporting sports driven youth empowerment programs across the country

Cheers to 20 years of partnership, impact, and sports excellence!