LUSAKA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on Monday called for the re-organization of sports in the country so that athletes can compete favorably in international tournaments.
In remarks following the just-ended Paris Olympic Games where Zambia finished 84th and only managed one bronze medal, Hichilema said the country has enough potential in various sports disciplines, adding that the country was at one time a force in Africa in squash, badminton and table tennis.
"Our sports organizations must become more organized, avoid unnecessary conflicts and elitism, and focus on their work. There should be no time to waste," he said in a post on his Facebook page.
The Zambian president further called on companies to invest more in sports as part of their corporate social responsibility, adding that sports united people, build national character and empower young people.
He also commended the athletes who represented the country at the Games and thanked runner Muzala Samukonga who secured the bronze medal in men's 400 meters race.
He said participation at the Paris Olympic Games has offered the country a moment to reflect on its sport culture and an opportunity to tap into schools to identify and nurture sports talent.
Zambia sent 27 athletes - four runners, two boxers, 18 national women soccer team players, one judoka and two swimmers - to Paris 2024.
