MUPOPO, SIAME CHEER STATE

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 10:50:02 +0000

By Grace Chaile Lesoesta

GOVERNMENT has commended runners Kabange Mupopo and Sydney Siame over their impressive performances at the on-going International Amateur Association Federations (IAAF) World Championships in London.

In an interview in Lusaka yesterday, Minister of Sport Moses Mawere said the determination and hard work exhibited by the two runners gave Zambia hope of medals at the 2020 Olympic Games.

Mawere said it was inspiring to watch Kabange and Mupopo lift Zambia’s flag high amidst a competitive environment.

“We are happy that the efforts by government to promote all sports disciplines is bearing fruit.

It is the more reason that the Olympic Youth Development Centre was constructed so we can nurture many athletes,” he said.

He said Government will continue to support athletics as it was one sport that could win Zambia medals.

The minister said his ministry would continue to support the exposure of athletes at elite level such as the World Championships.

“When we have more athletes competing at such level, then we are confident of winning medals,” he said.

Mawere urged other athletes to emulate the two runners for their dedication and discipline.

He advised Mupopo and Siame not to relax after the Championships but work harder to break their own times.

Mupopo and Siame were last night scheduled to compete in the women’s 400m final and men’s 200m semi-final respectively.