Copper Queens defender Esther Siamfuko appointed interim chairperson of NOCZ Athletes commission

23.03.2025 | Football DNA

Esther Siamfuko has been elected as the interim Chairperson of the Athletes Commission of the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) after running unopposed during the Elective Annual General Meeting held at the OYDC Zambia – Sports Development Centre on 22 March 2025.

Following her election, Siamfuko reportedly assured athletes that she would work closely with them to address their concerns and welfare. She was said to have emphasized that her mandate would be dedicated to improving sport in Zambia. Additionally, she had expressed her commitment to collaborating with other athletes’ commissions globally to exchange ideas and best practices.

While announcing her appointment, NOCZ Member of the Governance Commission, Brian Msidi, reportedly highlighted the importance of meeting the eligibility criteria outlined in the NOCZ constitution. He stated that the commission must consist of at least five Zambian nationals aged 16 and above, with no record of sanctions under the World Anti-Doping Code. He further explained that the majority of members had to be active national-level athletes or have competed in an Olympic sport within the last eight years. Additionally, he was quoted as saying that at least three members were required to have participated in one of the last three Olympic Games. Msidi also stressed that gender representation and sport diversity were key factors in the selection process.

He was also reported to have commended all athletes who took part in the elections, acknowledging their dedication and commitment to sports development in Zambia.

Meanwhile, NOCZ Secretary General Boniface Kambikambi was said to have urged athletes to uphold Olympic values and focus on their responsibilities now that the elections had concluded. He had reportedly encouraged the newly elected Athletes Commission to work together and support one another.

Election Results

• Chairperson: Esther Siamfuko (Football) – Unopposed

• Male Commission Member (Non-Olympian):

  • Richard Mulenga (Handball) – 28 votes

  • Sipho N. Changwe (Basketball) – 2 votes

  • Andrew Sande (Judo) – 4 votes

• Female Commission Member (Non-Olympian):

  • Carol Moono – 29 votes

  • Rita Kabinda (Judo) – 3 votes

  
  

The positions of Vice Chairperson and Secretary are yet to be filled and will be contested by Olympians.

With the new leadership in place, the Athletes Commission is expected to play a key role in advocating for the interests of Zambian athletes and strengthening the country’s presence in the global Olympic movement.

Credit: NOCZ