Olympian Rachael Kundananji Wins Continental IOC Gender Equality Award

Zambian footballer Rachael Kundananji OLY has been recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the continental winner for Africa in the 2025 IOC Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (GEDI) Champions Awards.

These awards recognize individuals who advance gender equality, diversity, and inclusion through sport worldwide. While former Indian volleyball captain Abhijit Bhattacharya received the global award, Kundananji was honored as a continental champion for her advocacy for women and girls in sport.

Racheal Kundananji OLY, a Zambian footballer, is a leading advocate for gender equality and inclusion through sport. Through the Racheal Kundananji Legacy Foundation (RKF), she empowers girls and young women from disadvantaged communities by expanding access to organised sport and leadership opportunities. RKF’s Kick for Greatness initiatives, delivered in schools and universities across Zambia in partnership with UNAIDS and UNESCO, combine football with mentorship, life‑skills training and health education. In its first year, the Foundation has reached more than 500 children and young people, promoting girls’ education, safe participation in sport and greater opportunities for women and girls to lead and thrive.

Photo of Rachael Kundananji in Lower Zambezi Chiawa Chiefdom on 1 January 2025 to grace the football Championship, which saw several young girls and boys win prize money and trophies after playing final games. In the background were NOCZ President Alfred Foloko and Secretary General Boniface Kambikambi.

The National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) has congratulated Kundananji for the well-deserved recognition, describing the award as an inspirational moment for Zambia and the African continent.

NOCZ Secretary General Boniface Kambikambi said the recognition reflects the outstanding work the player has been involved in beyond football.

Kambikambi noted that Kundananji’s initiatives and advocacy efforts have been visible in many activities aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering young people through sport.

He added that the Olympic body in Zambia has on several occasions been part of programmes and engagements championed by the football star in line with the values recognised by the IOC award.

“Her works are everywhere, and we have witnessed on many occasions the initiatives she has been involved in that align with this award,” Kambikambi said.

The NOCZ Secretary General further emphasised that Kundananji’s recognition as a continental winner is a significant achievement for Zambia, noting that emerging as a winner from Africa in such a global platform is not a simple feat.

He said the achievement will inspire many young players across the country to emulate her dedication, not only in sport but also in championing positive social change through athletics.