The Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Arts has affirmed the government's unwavering dedication to fostering a variety of sports, recognizing their crucial role in national economic advancement. During the awards ceremony for diverse sports disciplines, Acting Sports Minister Chipoka Mulenga emphasized that sports represent a thriving economic sector with the potential to generate sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for the youth. Mr Mulenga, who also serves as the Minister of Commerce, Trade, and Industry, offered his encouragement to athletes, urging them to persevere in their pursuit of excellence to fully realize their capabilities. "To the victorious champions who have earned an array of medals, I urge you not to rest on your laurels. Instead, this is the time to continue striving for greater accomplishments," stated Mr Mulenga. In a demonstration of the government's commitment to the sector, the Minister personally awarded medals to over 30 sports disciplines, including draughts, arm wrestling, judo, netball, chess, hockey, bodybuilding, weightlifting, darts, and rugby, among others. Additionally, Mr Mulenga revealed that Zambia is poised to host the Sports Expo and Forum at the prestigious Mulungushi International Conference Centre from August 25th to 26th, 2023. The event will be graced by the presence of the nation's President, Hakainde Hichilema, and will be organized in collaboration with the Ministries of Sports and Tourism, as well as the Diaspora organization. The theme of the Expo and Forum, "Showcasing Sports' Contribution to National Development," underscores the objective of uniting sports and businesses to spotlight potential partnership and collaboration opportunities. Mr. Mulenga highlighted that the Expo is set to convene more than 300 industry stakeholders, experts, and sponsors, fostering an environment conducive to meaningful exchanges. Meanwhile, in a noteworthy show of support, Atlas Mara Bank presented a symbolic cheque worth k100,000 towards the upcoming events. This gesture, Mr Mulenga affirmed, exemplifies the private sector's commitment to collaborating with the government in driving sporting and economic growth.