NOCZ Hosts 2025 Inclusive Sport Festival Under the Theme “Beyond Play: Inclusion Today, Leadership Tomorrow”

The National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) successfully hosted the 2025 Inclusive Sport Festival on 10 October at NASDEC, bringing together over 500 children with different abilities to celebrate the power of sport and inclusiveness. The festival provided a platform not only for play and recreation but also for children to learn about the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by NOCZ Vice President Nakaonga Kakoma, President Alfred Foloko expressed gratitude to the Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports (NIF) for their continued support.

NOCZ Vice President Nakaonga Kakoma

He noted that the Inclusive Sport Festival has grown into a household name, making a lasting impact on the lives of children. “The unwavering commitment to Zambia and inclusive sport has brought tangible transformation to the lives of countless children,” President Foloko emphasized.

Representing NIF, Nchimunya Mweetwa commended the organization of the festival, describing it as impressive in its ability to unite children in inclusive sports activities.

Guest of Honour, Principal Refugee Officer Makasa Mwenya-Fundafunda, representing the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Zambia, reaffirmed her office’s commitment to inclusiveness. She highlighted that societies flourish when every child and young person, regardless of background or ability, is given the chance to participate and shine.

She applauded NOCZ and all NIF partners for their dedication to creating such opportunities.

NOCZ Secretary General Boniface Kambikambi also praised the strong support from partners throughout the planning stages, describing it as both motivating and inspiring.

He congratulated them for their efforts in making the festival a success and for ensuring children enjoyed playing sports together.

The festival attracted the participation of key partners, including the Judo Association of Zambia, Sport in Action, Response Network, and NOWSPAR. It was also graced by National Sports Council of Zambia Chief Executive Officer Sombwa Musunsa, representatives from OYDC Zambia, the National Paralympic Committee of Zambia, and other stakeholders.

The 2025 Inclusive Sport Festival once again reaffirmed sport as a powerful tool for building inclusive communities, where every child has the opportunity to belong, participate, and lead.