OYDC ZAMBIA SPORTS DEVELOPMENT CENTRE READY TO HOST SOUTHERN AFRICAN JUDO CHAMPIONSHIPS

OYDC-Zambia Sports Development Centre has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting sports development in the region as it prepares to host the Southern African Judo Championships scheduled to take place from 4th to 5th April,2026 in Lusaka.

Speaking during the official launch of the championships today 13th March 2026, OYDC Zambia Sports Development Centre Acting Chief Executive Officer, Benjamin Tembo, expressed delight that the facility will serve as the host venue for the regional competition.

Tembo highlighted that the Centre has been recognized as a Centre of Excellence by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), a recognition that reflects OYDC’s continued commitment to providing quality sports infrastructure and supporting athlete development.
“As OYDC, we are delighted to provide the facility for the Southern African Judo Championships and to welcome athletes and officials from across the region,” he said.

Meanwhile, Southern African Judo Confederation General Secretary, who is also the Judo Association of Zambia General Secretary, noted that the championship is particularly important as it will serve as a qualifier for cadet athletes aiming to participate in the Africa Union Sports Council Region 5 Youth Games to be held in Mozambique. He added that the competition will also provide senior athletes with an important opportunity to gain international exposure and prepare for upcoming international competitions.

National Sports Council of Zambia Chief Executive Officer Sombwa Musunsa represented by Lombe Monica confirmed that the council has endorsed and authorized Zambia to host the Southern African Judo Championships. She also revealed that Zambia will host the Southern African Judo Confederation Elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 3rd April,2026 at the Golden Peacock Hotel, a day before the championship begins.

Preparations for the championship have been ongoing, with organisers expressing confidence that Lusaka will successfully host the prestigious regional competition.