Plan now for 2028 LA Olympics, ANOCA chief Berraf advised Zambia

By BENEDICT TEMBO

THE Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) president and International Olympic Committee (IOC) Member, Mustapha Berraf, has congratulated Team Zambia on winning a bronze medal in judo at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

Berraf encouraged Zambia to begin looking to future major sporting events, particularly the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and Brisbane 2032.

Berraf made the remarks during a visit to the Athletes’ Village in Dakar, where he and his delegation interacted with several athletes and members of Team Zambia.

He said the skills and talent demonstrated by Zambian athletes at Dakar 2026 showed great potential, adding that, with proper nurturing and sustained investment, the young athletes could develop into competitors capable of representing the country at future Olympic Games.

According to NOCZ media, Berraf also encouraged the Zambian delegation not to be disappointed by the number of medals won, stressing that participation, experience and continued development were equally important. He expressed confidence that African nations had the potential to win more medals at future international competitions and represent the continent with distinction.

Team Zambia Chef de Mission, Besa Chibwe, described the visit as encouraging, saying it was gratifying to have the ANOCA President and his delegation engage with the athletes at the Games Village and recognise Zambia’s achievement at Dakar 2026.

Meanwhile, National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) President Alfred Foloko said he was impressed by the environment provided for athletes throughout the Games.

Foloko thanked the government and people of Senegal, together with the International Olympic Committee, for their efforts in successfully hosting the first Youth Olympic Games on African soil.

Team Zambia’s bronze medal, secured by judoka Elisha Zimba in the men’s -55kg category, marked a significant achievement for the country and added another chapter to Zambia’s history at the Youth Olympic Games.

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