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Zambian sprinter, Muzala Samukonga, is facing a crucial situation as he requires approximately US$3,000 (K57,000) to undergo a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to assess the extent of the injury he sustained while competing in Poland. During a recent Diamond League race, Samukonga was forced to withdraw from the 400 meters event due to a hamstring injury. Following the incident, national team coach, Douglas Kalembo, revealed that Samukonga is scheduled for an MRI scan as soon as the necessary funds are available. Kalembo has already informed Zambia Athletics (ZA) and the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts about the severity of Samukonga's injury. Being his second appearance at the Diamond League, Samukonga showed great promise, finishing second to world record-holder Wayde Van Niekerk in Oslo, Norway, just last month. Speaking about the situation, Coach Kalembo stated, "An MRI scan in Europe is expensive and costs around US$3,000, though we will get the exact figure when we visit a health facility later today (yesterday). The first step is to conduct an MRI to determine the injury's extent, whether it's grade one, two, or three, or just a pulled hamstring. Therefore, we are eagerly awaiting support from ZA, the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts, and the National Olympic Committee of Zambia to come forward and help raise the necessary funds before it becomes too late." Highlighting the significance of Samukonga's upcoming participation in the World Championship scheduled for Budapest, Hungary, next month, Kalembo expressed that he is a strong contender to secure victory. Samukonga's previous achievements, including winning gold at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, make him a standout athlete in Zambia, as he is currently the sole Zambian athlete who has qualified for the World Championship. In light of the situation, Coach Kalembo emphasized the necessity to provide medical personnel for Samukonga during his journey to Hungary, stating, "As of now, I find myself playing the roles of coach and doctor, which is not ideal." The urgent need for funds and medical support makes this a critical time for Muzala Samukonga, and the collective efforts of Zambia Athletics, relevant authorities, and well-wishers will be instrumental in aiding the young sprinter on his path to recovery and further athletic achievements.
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