20/03/2026
Day 1 – Knowledge Transfer Programme, Katete District, Eastern Province.
March 20, 2026.
The Zambia Volleyball Association (ZAVA) officially launched its Volleyball Empowerment – Knowledge Transfer Programme on March 20, 2026, in Katete, Eastern Province. This three-day intensive workshop, running through March 22, marks a strategic milestone in the association’s mission to decentralize sports excellence and provide modern technical skills to officials, coaches, and administrators across the nation.
The ceremony was officially opened by Dr. Abel Shawa, who served as the Guest of Honor on behalf of the District Commissioner. In his keynote address, Dr. Shawa emphasized that the initiative perfectly aligns with the government’s vision for grassroots empowerment and human resource development. He noted that the Eastern Province, with its vibrant and youthful population, is ideally positioned to benefit from such high-level training in refereeing, coaching, and sports administration.
In a speech read by 1st Vice-president Technical Mr. Mweemba Martin Lloyd on behalf of ZAVA President Mr. Samuel Cosmas Sinyinza, highlighted the program's success following its initial rollout in 2025. Having already covered the Western, North Western, Muchinga, and Northern provinces. "This programme is a milestone in our efforts to develop volleyball in Zambia," stated Mr. Mweemba on behalf of the President. "Aligning with the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment philosophy, we aim to empower our officials with modern skills... your growth is Zambia’s growth in volleyball."
The Guest of Honor, Dr. Shawa, commended the dedication of the ZAVA Executive Board and the Local Organizing Committee. He reminded participants that volleyball is built on the pillars of skill, strategy, and teamwork. He urged the attendees to "seize this opportunity to learn, share, and grow," noting that the knowledge transferred during these sessions would create lasting career growth and economic opportunities within the Katete District.
The opening ceremony concluded with a call to action for all participants to take full advantage of the expertise provided by the course directors and instructors. As the program continues through the weekend, the focus remains clear: to foster community, inspire excellence, and ensure that the impact of this training is felt in every corner of Zambian volleyball.