NOWSPAR Celebrates 18 Years of Empowerment and Impact on International Day of Sport for Development and Peace.

The National Organization for Women in Sports, Physical Activity, and Recreation (NOWSPAR)  marked its 18th anniversary on the 6th of April, aligning the celebration with the globally recognized International Day of Sport for Development and Peace.

This significant day serves as a reminder of the power of sport in fostering peace, inclusion, and social change.

NOWSPAR Executive Director, Mofu Kandondo pointed out the deep-rooted mission of NOWSPAR to empower women and girls through sport, underscoring that sport is not just a game but a transformative tool for personal and community empowerment.

Ms. Kandondo reflected on the many challenges NOWSPAR has faced, including fighting discrimination, breaking down barriers for women and girls in sports, and challenging cultural norms that have often silenced children’s voices. 

She adds that despite these obstacles, NOWSPAR has successfully touched thousands of lives, influenced policy changes, and created safe spaces for athletes to thrive.

Ms. Kandondo also renewed NOWSPAR's commitment to a Zambia where every girl can run without fear, every child can play with dignity, and sport remains a powerful catalyst for peace and equality.

Ms. Kandondo called on all present to “play with purpose, advocate with courage, and lead with determination,” emphasizing that NOWSPAR’s work is far from over.

The anniversary celebration included children, parents, and community members, all celebrating the central role of sport in empowering individuals and fostering societal change. 

Meanwhile, NOWSPAR’s Program Coordinator for Child Rights Programming and Women's Participation in Sports, Reuben Chinfwembe, highlighted the significant barriers limiting women’s full participation in sports, particularly the lack of essential facilities like change rooms.

Mr. Chimfwembe stressed that these infrastructural gaps discourage girls and women from engaging in sports an activity that fosters empowerment and promotes equality.

He emphasized that lasting change depends on quality sports management and the active promotion of women’s leadership within the sector.

Mr. Chimfwembe notes that the anniversary celebration also served as a platform to champion values such as equality, fairness, and inclusivity in sports administration.

He further reaffirmed that advancing women’s and girl’s involvement in sports strengthens peace, equality, and social development worldwide.

And Head of Finance, Anthony Mushinge, joined in celebrating the organization's 18 years of advancing child rights, education, and women’s empowerment through sport.  

Mr. Mushinge said the anniversary is being commemorated by engaging the community, showcasing NOWSPAR’s advocacy programs, and highlighting the organization's ongoing commitment to promoting child protection.  

He paid tribute to the late founder, Matildah Mwaba, whose passion for girls' protection and empowerment laid a strong foundation for NOWSPAR’s work.  

Mr. Mushinge emphasizes that the organization remains focused on expanding its impact, building on 18 years of achievements to reach even more communities across Zambia and beyond.

Meanwhile, NOWSPAR’s Project Officer, Bertha Phiri said the event also honors the legacy of NOWSPAR’s founder, the late Matildah Mwaba, by highlighting the organization's impact over the years.  

She added that sanitary wear was distributed to the girls, made possible through a fundraising activity held last week.  

Ms. Phiri emphasized that although the tournament featured non-elite teams, the main focus was on inclusivity, community engagement, and promoting girl’s empowerment through sport.