The Wallace Group commemorated the milestone with a Twentieth Anniversary Gala (TAG) in Lusaka, Zambia, (4–6 August 2025), celebrating the achievements and impact of the Volunteer Zambia project.
The collaboration has positively impacted hundreds of thousands of young people, local Zambians and significantly contributed to Zambia’s sporting infrastructure. More than 15 million Zambian Kwacha has been invested in facilities such as netball, basketball, and volleyball courts across Lusaka.
In 2024 alone, the project reached over 17,000 young people through programming delivered nationwide – from Lusaka to Kaputa, Choma to Nakonde, and Livingstone to Chipata – demonstrating its deep community engagement and national reach.
Founded in 2006, the Wallace Group – comprising Cardiff Metropolitan University, Durham University, Loughborough University, Northumbria University, University of Edinburgh, University of St Andrews, and University of Stirling – has united over 1,000 student and staff volunteers in a shared mission to use sport as a catalyst for sustainable development, education, and youth empowerment.
Loughborough University’s Director on The Wallace Group Board, Cath Harvey said: "Twenty years ago, we set out with a simple belief—that sport could change lives. Today, standing alongside our Zambian partners, I’m humbled by the scale of what we’ve achieved together. This journey has been one of shared purpose, deep respect, and unwavering commitment. From the courts of Lusaka to the communities of Kaputa and Chipata, we’ve seen sport ignite hope, build futures, and unite hearts. It’s not just a celebration—it’s a promise to keep going, keep growing, and keep believing in the power of sport to transform lives.”
Frankson Mushindu, Executive Director of Sport In Action, said: “Together, we’ve shown that sport can be a powerful tool for social change. This anniversary is not just about the past – it’s about the future we’re building together.”
Twentieth Anniversary Gala highlights
Officially launched by the Zambian Ministry for Youth, Sport and Arts, TAG brought together key stakeholders from Zambia and the UK, including representatives from the Zambian Government, National Sports Council Zambia, Zambian sports federations, British High Commission, World Netball, The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Zambia, and Wallace Group universities.
Two large-scale Sport and Sport for Development Festivals on 4 and 5 August engaged over 1,100 young people and coaches, with 98 teams from 22 hub sites across Lusaka, Kafue, Mazabuka, Choma, and Livingstone. With over 60% female participation, the events promoted inclusive sport and life skills education focused on gender-based violence, equality, and social inclusion. The participants also explored enterprise and entrepreneurship training, with many beginning their journey toward achieving the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
Launch of strategic initiatives
During a special event hosted by the British High Commission, two major initiatives were unveiled:
World Netball Partnership: Since 2017, the number of community sport hub-sites in Zambia has grown from 5 to 49, supporting over 263 teams, 350 coaches (53% of whom are women), and more than 16,000 participants. Building on a partnership with World Netball that began with the 2019 Netball World Cup legacy project, Zambia’s successful community sport hub-site model is now being introduced to neighbouring countries (including most recently the Ivory Coast).
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Zambia and Sport in Action have joined forces to empower young people through self-directed learning, sports, and community service. United by a shared commitment to education beyond the classroom and promoting active lifestyles, the initiative is helping youth across Zambia grow and thrive. Currently active in six project locations across three provinces – with expansion into the Copperbelt underway – the programme has achieved a remarkable 93% completion rate in its first cohort, exceeding the global average by over 20% and reflecting the dedication and mentorship of Zambian leaders guiding the next generation.
Building Zambia’s sporting future
The programme not only transforms communities but also continues to nurture national-level talent. Alumni from hub sites now lead Zambia’s sporting success, including Andres Lazarus Tembo (African Netball Championship-winning coach), Monica Chidila (U20 Women’s Football Team Manager), Lyson Zulu (FAZ Technical Director), and Katambi Mwanza (Basketball Head Coach).
Celebrated at State House
To conclude the celebrations, representatives from Sport In Action, the Wallace Group, and the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia were honoured with a visit to State House. They met with senior government officials, including Jito Kayumba, Finance and Investment Advisor to the President. Discussions focused on strategic funding, expanding development efforts to underserved communities, and strengthening collaboration between government and civil society. The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to inclusive national development through sport.
Acknowledging support
Sport In Action and the Wallace Group gratefully acknowledge the support of global sportswear brand Macron, the Volunteer Zambia Foundation, Durham University, and the University of St Andrews. Macron donated £10,000 as event headline sponsors as well as over 3,000 pieces of sports kit to hub site participants, coaches, and Duke of Edinburgh Award participants and leaders, reinforcing their commitment to youth empowerment and sport for development.
The Wallace Group remains dedicated to co-designing sustainable sports development programmes that empower young people, foster global citizenship, and create opportunities for leadership and education.
For more information visit Volunteer Zambia and Sport in Action.