NOCZ Celebrates Olympic Day with Call for Active and Healthy Lifestyles

The National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ), through the National Olympic Academy, commemorated Olympic Day 2026 on Saturday, 27 June, by bringing together athletes, schools, National Sports Federations, partner organisations, and members of the public in a vibrant celebration of sport and physical activity under this year's theme, "You Can Do This!".

The event, held at the OYDC Zambia – Sports Development Centre, featured a variety of activities, including an Olympic Day Run, mass aerobics, fun movement sessions, sporting activities, and recreational games aimed at encouraging people of all ages to embrace active and healthy lifestyles. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as participants celebrated the Olympic values of Excellence, Friendship, and Respect, demonstrating the unifying power of sport.

NOCZ Secretary General/CEO Boniface Kambikambi, NOA Chairperson Mwape Zulu, Olympians Association of Zambia President Jonathan Chipalo, NOCZ Athletes Commission Chairperson Esther Siamfuko, and other athletes pose for a photo.

Speaking during the celebrations, National Olympic Academy Chairperson Mwape Zulu highlighted the significance of Olympic Day within the Olympic Movement, noting that it commemorates the founding of the modern Olympic Games while inspiring communities around the world to remain physically active. She encouraged athletes and members of the public to continue embracing the Olympic values of friendship, respect, and excellence in both sport and their everyday lives.

NOCZ Secretary General/CEO Boniface Kambikambi, who delivered remarks on behalf of NOCZ President Alfred Foloko, urged participants to ensure that the spirit of Olympic Day extends beyond the annual celebration.

"As we continue celebrating today, I encourage everyone to remain active long after Olympic Day has passed. Let us continue inspiring one another, supporting our athletes, and using sport as a tool for building healthier, stronger, and more united communities," he said.

Among those who joined the celebrations were NOCZ Treasurer Victor Banda, Olympians Association of Zambia President Jonathan Chipalo, NOCZ Athletes Commission Chairperson Esther Siafumuko Oly, representatives of National Sports Federations, coaches, athletes, schools, and other stakeholders who came together to celebrate the Olympic spirit.

The NOCZ also extended its sincere appreciation to institutions that joined the Olympic Day celebrations from different parts of the country, including the Kwame Nkrumah University Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) Club in Kabwe, Mufulira College of Education, and Mopani Central Training Centre on the Copperbelt. Their participation helped extend the Olympic Day message to more communities, demonstrating a shared commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and the Olympic values across Zambia.

Olympic Day is celebrated annually around the world to commemorate the founding of the modern Olympic Movement on 23 June and serves as a reminder that sport has the power to inspire healthier lifestyles, build stronger communities, and unite people across all backgrounds. Through this year's "You Can Do This!" campaign, the NOCZ reaffirmed its commitment to promoting physical activity and encouraging every Zambian to keep moving, stay healthy, and embrace the lifelong benefits of sport.