COMMONWEALTH DAY CELEBRATION IN LUSAKA EMPHASIZES SPORTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION

On a beautiful Saturday morning in Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, a gathering of dignitaries, students, teachers, and parents came together to celebrate Commonwealth Day. The event was hosted by Trident Prep Lusaka, a school that is part of Educore services, a British company investing in education in Zambia. Although the CEO of Educore services, Andrew Whittal, was supposed to be the host, Austin Clarke, Executive Head of Trident Schools, stood in on his behalf.

The event was graced by the presence of the British High Commissioner to Zambia, Nicholas Woolley, who praised the school for its stunning campus and peaceful environment. He also highlighted the importance of the Commonwealth and the common values that bind the 56 sovereign and independent nations together. The Commonwealth charter, which is now 10 years old, enshrines these values, including respect for human rights and democracy, promotion of peace and security, and forging prosperity amongst nations. The theme for this year's Commonwealth Day celebration was "Forging a sustainable and peaceful common future," which resonates deeply with Zambia as it strives for sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Left to Right: H.E Nicholas Woolley, NOC/CGA Zambia President Alfred Foloko, Trident Prep Lusaka Headteacher Rudi Brewis and NOC/CGA Zambia Programmes Officer Tinyiko Kamanga inspect balls made from recycled materials

“The British Council in Zambia is actively promoting Commonwealth connections and linking schools across Commonwealth nations to celebrate diversity. The Commonwealth scholarships offer opportunities for students to attend some of the leading universities in the UK or other Commonwealth nations,” Woolley Revealed.

The President of the National Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association of Zambia (NOC/CGA Zambia), Alfred Foloko, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of sports and the environment. The activities hosted by Trident Prep Lusaka for school children between the ages of 5 and 12 from Trident Prep Lusaka, Martin House School, and British International School in Lusaka were centered around sports and the environment.

“This is a clear indication that the Commonwealth recognizes the role of sports in promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation,” he said.

NOC/CGA Zambia President Alfred Foloko presenting a certificate of appreciate to Trident Prep Lusaka for hosting the 2023 Commonwealth Day Commemoration Event.

The event was also an opportunity to show solidarity with the happenings in Malawi and Mozambique that have affected the environment. CGA Zambia offered sympathy to both countries and supported the quick action from the President of the Republic of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, to address environmental and climate issues.

The celebration was not just about speeches; there were also fun activities for the children, showcasing different sports equipment made from recycled materials which were later used in some of the sports activities, Tree planting, and environmental conservation activities.

The children had a great time, and they were able to learn the importance of taking care of the environment.

H.E Nicholas Woolley (in blue) looks on as Alfred Foloko is flanked by two Trident student during the Tree plating ceremony

In conclusion, the 2023 Commonwealth Day celebration at Trident Prep Lusaka was a great success, and it emphasized the importance of common values, sports, and the environment in promoting sustainable development and peace. It also highlighted the role of the Commonwealth in promoting democracy, human rights, and respect for the rule of law. The event brought together 150 students, teachers, parents, and dignitaries to celebrate the global family that shares common goals, values, and aspirations.