Zambia National Service (ZNS) Commander Lieutenant General (Engr) Maliti Solochi II has advised Zambia’s Olympic Bronze Medalist Staff Sergeant Muzala Samukonga to reconsider turning down pledges and instead accept celebratory gestures for his outstanding achievement at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
This follows a recent statement released on the sportsman’s Facebook page, that he will be unable to accept the pledges and offers of support that were made to him following his achievement at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Lt Gen Solochi said Command had taken a proactive approach, counseling SSgt Samukonga to reevaluate his decision and acknowledge the value of his accomplishments.
Speaking on the sideline of the medal presentation at ZNS Headquarters in Lusaka today, the Commander said to ensure accountability, Command has engaged the Public Relations and Liaison Brach to receive and record all the pledges on his behalf for onward delivery.
“We were worried to hear that the Bronze Medalist had refused to eat from the labour of his sweat. As Command, we therefore took it upon ourselves to understand Samukonga’s decision and encourage him to accept the recognition for his hard work. By embracing these gestures. Samukonga can revel in his achievement and inspire a new generation of Zambian athletes,” Lt Gen Solochi said.
And Gen Solochi congratulated athletes that participated in various prominent international competitions for their exceptional performances which saw them securing prestigious medals for the nation.
He said earning medals across all tiers – bronze, silver, and gold – demonstrated the athletes’ exceptional talent, work ethic, and dedication to representing their country with distinction.
“As members of ZNS, you have proven that you are not just athletes but ambassadors of our nation. Your participation in international competitions has not only brought glory to Zambia but also inspired the nation. You have shown that with hard work, determination, and resilience, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness,” the Commander said.
Lt Gen Solochi said the Service is committed to fully supporting and incentivizing ZNS sponsored sportsmen and women in their professional and competitive endeavors.
He however, Implored them to remain focused on the larger goal, persevering through challenges and addressing concerns calmly and constructively through established channels or indeed the government.
In response SSgt Samukonga expressed gratitude to ZNS Command for its ongoing financial support and promised to continue delivering outstanding performances in future competitions.
And ZNS Chief of Sports and Culture, Brigadier General Freeman Kafimba thanked Command for the continued support towards various sports disciplines in the Service.
Leading the pack was SSgt Samukonga, who clinched a bronze medal in the 4x400m relay at the Paris 2024 Olympics and also won silver and gold medals at the All Africa Games in Ghana, Accra. He also received the prestigious Diamond League Italy award at the Golden Gala.
SSgt Patrick Nyambe and Corporal David Mulenga joined SSgt Samukonga on the podium, earning certificates as 4x400m relay finalists at the Olympic Games. Both athletes also secured gold medals at the All Africa Games and bronze medals at the Senior Championship in Cameroon.
Sergeant Rhoda Njovu brought home a silver medal from the All Africa Games in the 4x400m relay, while Ms. Emelder Kapunzila won a silver medal at the Senior Africa Championship.
Corporal Thomson Mbewe added to Zambia’s medal tally, finishing as a 4x400m relay finalist at the Paris 2024 Olympics and securing a bronze medal at the Senior Championship in Cameroon.
In the ABSA marathon events, Ms Elizabeth Daka sponsored by ZNS claimed first place in the 21km category and a prize of K80, 000 while Ms Mumbi took top honors in the 10km category, earning K10, 000.
– ZNS
