The African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 hosted a memorable Walk for Life event in Livingstone, Zambia on Saturday 28 September 2024. The event, under the theme, “Walking towards an inclusive society” attracted scores of people from in and around the tourism city of Livingstone.The event, which was in its second edition, was a resounding success, drawing a record-breaking crowd of over a thousand participants. The overwhelming response from people from all walks of life, some who lined up the streets of the Livingstone, demonstrating the growing popularity of the event and growing interest in physical activity and healthy lifestyles among the people. The Walk for Life fostered a sense of community and solidarity by including participants from Special Olympics and Paralympics, as well as young people and tourists. This was in line with the theme whose main thrust was to generate awareness on the need to embrace people with disabilities in the process of fostering accessible sport and building inclusive societies.

Zambia’s Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Honourable Elvis Nkandu who was the event’s guest of honour led from the front as he walked 10km. He was accompanied by his two Permanent Secretaries and other government officials.

In his keynote address during the event, Minister Nkandu emphasised the need for societies to embrace a culture of physical activity and exercise. “Zambia chose to make the walk for life an annual event because it represents more than just a physical activity. It embodies our shared commitment to creating an inclusive society where everyone regardless of background or ability can fully participate,” Minister Nkandu said. He went on to note how saddening it is to note that the prevalence of sedentary behavior stands at 30% and that it is significantly higher among adolescents in Southern Africa and East Africa compared to West and North Africa. “Let us therefore encourage our children to play outside and be more physically active”, said Nkandu.

As Zambia has established this as an annual event, Region 5 plans to grow this event into a global showpiece providing open access to all members of Region 5 including tourists visiting the iconic city of Livingstone. Region 5 plans to expand the event into a platform that will serve as a nexus for development through tourism and enhanced entrepreneurship.

Speaking after the event, a visibly excited AUSC Region 5 CEO, Stanley Mutoya said, “We are deeply touched by the outpouring of compassion and solidarity shown by all who attended. This commitment reflects Zambia’s unwavering support for solidarity and belief in the region’s crucial role in Africa.” Mutoya went on to emphasise that AUSC Region 5 is dedicated to promoting physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and social inclusion throughout Southern Africa. The Walk for Life event therefore served as a powerful reminder of Region 5’s collective commitment to fostering inclusivity not only in sports but also in day-to-day lives, as envisioned in the African Union blueprint – Agenda 2063 developed by our Heads of State andGovernment.

AUSC Region 5 extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Zambia, led by His Excellency President Dr Hakainde Hichilema, and the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts, headed by Minister Elvis Nkandu, for their unwavering support to the cause. Gratitude is also extended to the enthusiastic participation of scores of Zambians in “Walking Towards an Inclusive Society”.