Barbados has agreed to introduce its indigenous sport of road tennis to Zambia.
The agreement came out of what was described as productive discussions between the Permanent Secretaries responsible for the two countries – Barbados’ Charley Browne and Kangwa Chileshe of Zambia – at a recent meeting here to foster closer collaboration in sports.
A statement from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment said the agreement highlighted the shared commitment to sporting exchanges, and the thrust to further expand road tennis, which was invented in Barbados in the 1930s.
“By introducing road tennis in Zambia, the two nations aim to promote cultural diversity, strengthen people-to-people connections, and foster a deeper understanding of each other’s traditions,” it said.
“This sports exchange programme would provide athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts in Zambia with an opportunity to engage in a unique sporting experience, while also creating a platform for the exchange of knowledge and expertise.”
The meeting further highlighted the potential for a bilateral agreement between Barbados and Zambia in the area of sports. Both Permanent Secretaries expressed enthusiasm and optimism about the prospects of this collaboration.
“The success of this meeting underscores the commitment of both countries to foster stronger bilateral relations through sports,” the ministry said, noting that the discussions have laid the groundwork for a partnership that extends beyond the realm of sports.
Chileshe was in Barbados attending the 6th Formal Meeting of the Bureau of the Eighth Session of the Conference of Parties (COP 8) to the International Convention Against Doping in Sport, of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). (BGIS/BT)
