Chali Mulenga
Livingstone
In a rousing speech at the 2023 Norwegian Olympics and Paralympics Confederation of Sports (NIF) Partners Inclusive Sport Festival, Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai delivered a powerful message of unity, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability.
Under the theme "Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Inclusivity & Environmental Sustainability," the festival brought together a diverse array of participants, partners, and friends. Mayor Muleabai highlighted the profound significance of this event as a testament to humanity's ability to come together, embrace differences, and effect positive change.
The festival, the second of three planned for the 2023 edition, was praised by the Mayor for its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and environmental sustainability. Partners including the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ), Response Network, Sport in Action, Edusport Foundation, and NOWSPAR were commended for their dedication.
This year's festival was particularly notable for its expansion to three locations, showcasing a commitment to reach every corner of Zambia and leave no one behind. Over 250 participants, including individuals of diverse abilities, backgrounds, and dreams, converged in Livingstone to demonstrate that sport is a universal language that transcends barriers.
Mayor Muleabai passionately stressed that inclusivity is more than a buzzword; it's a call to action. Embracing individuals of all abilities and providing opportunities for everyone to shine creates a stronger, richer, and more vibrant society. She celebrated the achievements of differently-abled individuals, emphasizing that diversity is our collective strength.
The Mayor reminded attendees that the environment is not separate from us; we are intrinsically connected to it. Safeguarding the planet's resources is a responsibility shared by all. The festival's incorporation of environmental sustainability underscored the commitment to a more inclusive and environmentally conscious world.
The Mayor commended the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) and Response Network for their extraordinary efforts in coordinating the festival. Their collaboration led to an event that will be remembered for the competitions held and the profound impact it will have on society.
As attendees immersed themselves in various sports activities, Mayor Muleabai reminded them that true victory lies in the friendships made, barriers broken, and messages carried forward. She expressed deep gratitude to all participants, partners, organizers, and contributors for their dedication and commitment to making a difference.
And in a stirring inaugural address, Mr. Boniface Kambikambi, Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ), officially launched the much-anticipated 2023 NIF Partners Inclusive Sport Festival, a groundbreaking event spanning three unique locations – Maheba Refugee Camp, Livingstone, and Lusaka.
With the theme "Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Inclusivity & Environmental Sustainability," the event has garnered significant attention for its ambitious scope and overarching message of togetherness and environmental consciousness.
Mr. Kambikambi opened the festival by acknowledging the remarkable athletes, hailing from diverse backgrounds and abilities, who will compete in this festival. The festival's success has been made possible through the collaboration of several partner organizations, including Zambia Athletics, Netball Zambia, Sport in Action, Edusport Foundation, Olympafrica Centre, Response Network, Judo Association of Zambia, and NOWSPAR.
This year's festival marks a historic milestone, boasting an impressive 36% increase in participants compared to the previous year, underscoring its growing societal impact and relevance. The dedication and enthusiasm exhibited by all involved reflect the core values of inclusivity, unity, and sustainability.
The festival is fortunate to receive generous funding from the Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports (NIF) for the seventh consecutive year, a testament to their unwavering belief in the festival's vision and their commitment to the cause.
The festival's theme, "Unity in Diversity," serves as a guiding principle, emphasizing that differences should not divide but unite. Through sports, participants learn to embrace, understand, and respect one another, fostering a vibrant and harmonious community.
Inclusivity is not merely a gesture but a promise to empower every individual to thrive. The festival showcases the achievements of differently-abled children and young athletes, highlighting the boundless human spirit and the power of perseverance.
Environmental sustainability is a duty, not an option, and the festival is committed to protecting the environment for future generations. This commitment is exemplified by the festival's environmentally conscious practices and choices.
As the festival embarks on this remarkable journey, Mr. Kambikambi urged participants, partners, and supporters to celebrate the bonds forged, dreams nurtured, and impact created. He emphasized that the spirit of unity, inclusivity, and sustainability should guide actions well beyond the festival, towards a brighter, more inclusive, and environmentally conscious future.
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