Siamfuko elected NOCZ interim chairperson
By Cecilia Nayame
NEWLY elected National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) interim chairperson Esther Siamfuko has pledged to strengthen relations with commissions across the world to exchange ideas and learn best practices on sports development.
Siamfuko, an Olympian and football star, said she would take advantage of her time in office to youth participation in sports across the country.
She pledged to work closely athletes and to address their concerns through the established channels.
“I will commit myself to ensure that we foster collaborations with other athletes’ commissions across the globe. This will be done in an effort to exchange ideas and best practices on how best sport can continue attracting especially the youths,” she said.
Siamfuko scooped the position of chairperson after going through unopposed during an elective annual general meeting (AGM) held at OYDC-Zambia Sports Development Centre in Lusaka last Saturday.
Richard Mulenga retained his position as male commissioner after polling 28 votes against his rivals Andrew Sande who got four votes while Sipho Changwe only managed two votes.
The position of female commissioner went to Carol Moono who polled 29 votes against her only rival Rita Kabinda who got three votes.
The positions of vice chairperson and secretary which are yet to be filled, will only be contested by Olympians on a date to be announced.
And speaking at the official opening of the meeting, NOCZ secretary general Boniface Kambikambi urged athletes to promote and uphold Olympic values.
“With the elections concluded, the newly elected Athletes Commissions must now focus on their duties and actively support one another,” he said.
NOCZ governance commission member Brian Msidi urged the newly elected executive to underscore the significance of adhering to the eligibility criteria outlined in the NOCZ constitution.
He commended athletes for dedicating their time to contribute to the growth of sport in the country.