Youth, Sport and Child Development Minister Moses Mawere, says government will continue to support the Olympic Youth Development Centre (OYDC) which is developing athletes to represent the country at Olympic Games and regional competitions.
Speaking after a familiarisation tour of the Centre, the minister said he was impressedthat the OYDC is a busy Centre, where athletes from communities and other parts of the Country are training from.
The minister who was accompanied by his Permanent Secretary Agnes Musunga, Director of Sport Bessie Chelemu, Director Human Resource and Administration Alphonso Banda and other senior officers in the Ministry commended the OYDC for its services and facilities it offers.
And the Minister instructed the Permanent Secretary to ensure that the OYDC is launched as the National Centre of Excellence for Sport.
Meanwhile, the minister also toured the ’90 Days Legacy’ swimming pool at the Centre which host athletes in during swimming competitions.
He also toured the OYDC Lodge, whichaccommodates athletes, delegates, sport federation representatives and others who use the OYDC for different events.
And OYDC Director Clement Chileshe, who welcomed the Minister and his entourage said the Centre since inception has continued to host athletes of which some have represented the country at the Olympic Games.
Chileshe, said through the partnership of Samsung, Teulings, Zamtel and other corporate partners the Centre has continued to host the Youth Sport Challenge developing athletes being selected to play for the national team and local clubs.