Zambia proudly upholds its commitment as an active and loyal member of the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5, according to the Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts, Elvis Nkandu. Speaking through the Southern Province permanent secretary, Namani Monze, during the official opening of the AUSC Strategic Plan Review Forum in Livingstone, Nkandu highlighted Zambia's steadfast support for the region. He underlined Zambia's loyalty by recalling instances where the nation willingly hosted Region 5 events, even when resources were limited. He mentioned the memorable hosting of the Region 5 Youth Games in 2012 and the signing of the Podium Performance Programme (PPP) in 2015 in Livingstone. Zambia's latest hosting of the Strategic Plan Review Forum, though not obligatory, is another testament to its commitment to regional solidarity. The minister emphasized Zambia's deep respect for solidarity and its belief in the pivotal role of Region 5 within the African and global sporting landscape. He referred to the aspirations outlined in the SADC Protocol on Culture, Information, and Sport, signed in 2001, stating that Region 5 epitomises the dreams of the forefathers. Nkandu expressed Zambia's humility and delight in welcoming delegates from all 10 member countries of Region 5 as "brothers and sisters." Hosting the Strategic Plan Review Forum on Zambian soil demonstrates the country's active participation within the region. Highlighting Zambia's unique attributes, Nkandu mentioned its diverse population of nearly 20 million people, consisting of seventy-three distinct ethnic groups living harmoniously. The country's proximity to eight neighbouring nations makes it a regional hub, with Livingstone, known as the tourist capital, being home to the famous Mosi-Ou-Tunya (Victoria Falls). Furthermore, he emphasized Zambia's sports development, citing achievements in football, athletics, and boxing, as well as the contributions of sports icons like Kalusha Bwalya, Samuel Matete, Lottie Mwale, Muzala Samukonga, Collins Mbesuma, and Patson Daka.