The National Sport Policy 2024 sets out the Government of Zambia’s renewed vision and strategic direction for the development of sport as a tool for social, economic, and national transformation. Revised from its 2006 version, this policy reflects current global and local trends, aligns with key international charters, and seeks to make sport inclusive, professional, and impactful across all sectors of Zambian society.
🎯 Vision
A united, prosperous, physically active nation of champions in sport.
📚 Rationale
The policy aims to:
- Boost grassroots and elite sport development.
- Improve sport infrastructure and participation.
- Enhance sport’s role in national development and wellness.
- Align with international frameworks (AU, UNESCO, WADA, SADC, Commonwealth).
🧭 Guiding Principles
- Good governance and accountability
- Equity and inclusion
- Integrity and fair play
- Multi-sectoral partnerships
- Effective coordination
- National pride and volunteerism
🔑 Strategic Objectives
- Promote sport as a driver of social and economic development.
- Ensure inclusive participation for women, girls, Persons with Disabilities, and older persons.
- Expand and modernize sport infrastructure nationwide.
- Increase mass participation in physical activity.
- Support high-performance athletes and elite competitions.
- Institutionalize Physical Education and Sport in schools.
- Strengthen coach and technical official training and certification.
- Promote integrity and anti-doping in sport.
- Safeguard athletes from abuse and exploitation.
- Encourage research and evidence-based sport policies.
- Modernize the legal framework for sport governance.
🏗️ Implementation Framework
The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts leads coordination, supported by:
- National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ)
- Zambia Professional Boxing and Wrestling Control Board
- Ministries of Education, Health, Local Government, Gender, Defence, and more
- National Olympic and Paralympic Committees
- Private sector, media, schools, universities, and local communities
Key strategies include:
- Public-private partnerships for infrastructure
- Schools of Sporting Excellence
- National Coaching Accreditation System
- Anti-doping education and testing
- Research collaboration with institutions
🏆 Incentives & Recognition
The policy promotes athlete motivation through awards, scholarships, and social security support, ensuring athletes can pursue sport professionally and sustainably.
