STATEMENT ON THE DECISION TO WITHDRAW TEAM ZAMBIA FROM THE 2ND EDITION OF THE AFRICAN BEACH GAMES.

It is with deep regret that we, the National Olympic Committee of Zambia, hereby announce our decision to withdraw a significant portion of Team Zambia from participating in the 2nd Edition of the African Beach Games scheduled to take place in Tunisia from June 23rd to June 30th, 2023 as agreed with the Ministry.

This difficult choice to withdraw the Air Badminton, Beach Handball male, and Beach Volleyball female Teams from the Hammamet 2023 Games stems from the unfortunate inability to secure timely air tickets for the team's travel to Tunisia, which lies within the purview of the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts.

In March 2023, Zambia confirmed its participation at the 2nd beach games to compete in the three sports codes as they are earmarked as qualifiers to the World Beach Games to be held in August 2023.

Numerous discussions and negotiations have transpired between NOCZ and the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts, ultimately leading to a position wherein the Ministry would undertake the responsibility of coordinating the travel arrangements for Team Zambia. Meanwhile, NOCZ would assume the procurement of Team Uniforms, camping arrangements, allowances, and any other logistical aspects associated with the Games' preparations.

Our utmost focus and attention shall now be directed towards the Teqball Team, whose travel arrangements were diligently managed by their respective federation and are already present in Hammamet.

We sincerely express our regret for this unfortunate turn of events, especially on the impact to the athletes and coaches. We further wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to all stakeholders, athletes, coaches, and Games management who have dedicated their time and effort towards the preparation for the African Beach Games.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting our athletes and ensuring optimal performance in future sporting events.

For and on behalf of the National Olympic Committee of Zambia

Alfred Foloko

President

National Olympic Committee of Zambia

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Signed Statement attached

AFRICAN GAMES WITHDRAW STATEMENT 2023

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