Government has described the newly completed Chibolya Grounds Community Youth Empowerment Project as a significant milestone in promoting youth development and reducing social vices among young people.

The Chibolya Grounds has been modernised by Vivo Energy Zambia as part of the company’s commitment to empowering local communities through sport and youth development initiatives.

Speaking during the official handover ceremony in Lusaka yesterday, Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary Mr. Kangwa Chileshe said the facility is more than just a football ground, describing it as a strategic investment in the future of young people and the community at large.

Mr. Chileshe said sport plays a critical role in fostering discipline, leadership, teamwork and resilience while creating opportunities for young people to identify, nurture and develop their talents.

He noted that the modernised facility will provide a safe and inclusive environment for talent identification, skills development, healthy living and positive social engagement among youths.

The Permanent Secretary added that the Chibolya Grounds project will offer positive alternatives for young people and help curb crime, idleness, alcohol abuse, and drug and substance abuse within the community.

Mr. Chileshe reaffirmed government’s commitment to providing safe, inclusive and accessible sporting facilities across the country, noting that sport remains an important tool for promoting unity, social inclusion and economic empowerment.

He further commended Vivo Energy Zambia for investing in community development, saying such initiatives complement government’s efforts to improve access to quality sports infrastructure and create opportunities for young people to realise their full potential.

The Permanent Secretary also urged members of the Chibolya community to take ownership of the facility by ensuring that it is properly maintained and fully utilised for the benefit of present and future generations.

Meanwhile, Vivo Energy Zambia Managing Director Mr. Edward Walugembe praised the people of Chibolya for their support and cooperation throughout the project implementation period.

Mr. Walugembe said the successful completion of the modernisation works would not have been possible without the active involvement and commitment of the local community, adding that the project reflects the company’s dedication to creating lasting positive impact through sport and youth empowerment.

And 2012 Africa Cup of Nations-winning captain Christopher Katongo welcomed the initiative, describing it as a valuable investment in grassroots sports development.

Katongo said projects such as the Chibolya Grounds modernisation are essential for identifying, nurturing and developing sporting talent at community level, while inspiring young people to pursue their dreams through sport.