By Merlyn Mwanza
President Hakainde Hichilema has assured the Zambia National Women football team that government will do its part to ensure a successful outing to the World Cup, and that their duty is just to do their part.
Addressing the team via video conference, President Hakainde Hichilema assured the Shepolopolo of the government’s full support as they represent the country at the highest stage.
“You can take my word on that,” President said. “Please remain focussed, you will hear a lot from home, from elsewhere. People talk a lot when you are a a stage where are now. The level you are operating at now a lot of people take interest. Some positive, some negative. Remain focussed. If I have to share something with you from personal experience (is to) remain focussed. Just eyes on the ball.”
He said the media will say things, including friends but they must remain focussed, and told them he was proud of the team.
“So do your part. Your government will do its part. Yes there are one or two things I hear are not yet done. It will be done. Take my word it will be done. So but lets deliver as a team,” said the President.
Head of delegation Priscilla Katoba informed the President that the team was composed of 12 on the technical bench, 26 players and 6 officials, and that the team will play its first game at the Australia-New Zealand Women Soccer World Cup against Japan on July 22, 2023 at 09:00 hours Zambian time at 19:00 hours New Zealand time.
She said the players and technical team were ready for the tasks ahead and thanked the support from the administration.
Head coach Bruce Mwape promised that the team would not disappoint as their focus is to get to the finals.
