Martial arts body names national squad

By GRACE CHAILE LESOETSA

THE Zambia Martial Arts Federation (ZMAF) has named 25 karatekas in the national team that will start preparations for the three lined-up international competitions.

The competitions will serve as qualifiers to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

ZMAF president Munyaradzi Mangaba said the karatekas would have to collect enough points from the three international events to book a slot at the Olympics.

“The three events are Region Five championship set for May 23 in Botswana, Africa Cup in August and the World Championship billed for Spain in November. This year’s events are crucial because they are qualifying championships for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics,” Mangaba said.

He was confident that the team which begins its training sessions on February 9, 2018 would be adequately prepared for the task.

He called on the athletes to be disciplined and work hard to cement their place in the team.

Meanwhile, Mangaba appealed to the government and other stakeholders for financial and material support towards the team.

The senior men’s team has Ricky Masandiko, Freelance Washeni, Redson Hang’andu, Abdallah Siadombozia, Peter Nswalamba, Albert Hamainga, Mushila Slater, and Seth Sibanda.

Under 24: Ernest Ngoma and Lovewell Bwali

Under-21: Kabamba Mwape, Nickson Kunda and Leonard Chabu Under-17: Mateke Njobvu

Under 14: Manaseh Kasapato and Stan Mulenga Under-10: Gift Mumba, Chipo Chilunjika, Mpaso Chilunjika and Bruce Chisanga

Women; Susan Namainga, Maureen Moomba , Tasila Kanswata and Maureen Nyirongo.