SADC games must instil love - official

THE SADC municipal games should be used to instil love and peace among Africans, xenophobia is a demonic and barbaric act, says Southern Africa Inter-Municipal Sports Association (SAIMSA) president Sam Rameetse.

And Zambia National Building Society (ZNBS) has donated K50, 000 towards the hosting of SAIMSA games which starts this Sunday in Lusaka.

Addressing the media yesterday, Rameetse called on all participants to spread love and peace during the games.

His remarks were prompted by the recent xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals in his native South Africa.

He said SAIMSA games would be the beginning of Ubuntu and also the wellness of employees in the region.

“These games are bringing together Africans. It doesn’t matter the borders that separate us, infact they are the part of barricading our good self as Africans. This is why we are seeing barbaric behaviours in some individuals,”

Rameetse declared the National Heroes Stadium and Olympic Youth Development Centre ready to host the games.

He commended the Zambia Local Authorities Sports Association (ZALASA) for working tirelessly to raise funds for the event.

ZALASA president Christopher Shakafuswa said 85 percent of the K1.5 million budget has been raised.

He thanked ZNBS for coming on board to support the municipality.

ZNBS managing director Joseph Chikolwa said the event was in line with the bank’s wellness aspirations.

Other participating countries include South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana, Namibia and eSwatini.