Zambia : Runner Samukonga Criticises ZA Over Athlete Welfare

Commonwealth Games gold medalist Muzala Samukonga has publicly criticised the current Zambia Athletics administration, accusing it of failing athletes and forcing them to fund their own trips to represent the country.

The sprinter, 23, who won gold for Zambia at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games and African Championships at age 19, said the situation under Major Bernard Bwalya’s executive has led to frustration and wasted talent.

In a strongly worded statement posted on his face-book page, Samukonga said athletes should not be burdened with costs that government and the association are supposed to cover.

“It is deeply disappointing that under the current presidency and executive of Zambia Athletics led by Major Bernard Bwalya, athletes continue to represent the country at their own expense on national duties,” Samukonga said.

“How can we expect to grow the sport and win medals when athletes are being asked to pay for their own air tickets to represent the nation? Representing Zambia is a national duty, and it should come with national support especially from the ministry of sport through Zambia athletics.”

He added that since the current administration came into office, “there have been no major achievements, no proper athlete welfare, and no clear development plan for athletics in Zambia.”

“Instead, we have seen frustration, withdrawal, and athletes funding their own trips and expenses,” he said.

Samukonga acknowledged that the previous administration under Elias Mpondela “didn’t do much, but the effort was seen especially on national duties and other issues regarding Zambian athletics.”

“Us as athletes deserve better. The Ministry of Sport and relevant stakeholders must intervene and ensure that Zambia Athletics is run by leaders who can mobilize resources, account for them, and prioritize athletes first. Until then, talent will continue to go to waste,” he said.

In response, Zambia Athletics General Secretary Teddy Shimishi has issued a statement assuring members that the federation will investigate the matter.

“Zambia Athletics has taken note of the various media reports and social media posts currently circulating in relation to a post made on one of our athletes’ social media platforms,” Mr. Shimishi said.

“We wish to assure our members, athletes, coaches, officials and the general public that Zambia Athletics will thoroughly investigate the matter in accordance with the established procedures of the Federation and its safeguarding policies. A comprehensive report will be issued once the investigation has been concluded.”

Shimishi said the federation has established channels through which concerns should be raised to “avoid actions or statements that may bring the name of Zambia Athletics into disrepute.”

He explained that most international programs receive support from Government through the Ministry of Sport, NSCZ, and NOCZ for events like the Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games.

However, he noted that for “international and individual competitions where athletes participate in their professional capacity,” logistical arrangements may be handled with support from athletes’ agents or representatives.

“Zambia Athletics remains fully committed to the welfare, protection and development of all our athletes. The leadership of the Federation has continued to work tirelessly to move the sport forward,” he added.

Zambia Athletics said it will issue a comprehensive statement once investigations are concluded.

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