Alfred Foloko honoured for 10 years of Sport Development Service
Alfred Foloko, President of the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ), was honoured with the 10 Years of Service Award at the 2025 Regional Annual Sports Awards (RASA), hosted by the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Presented with a ceremonial blazer, Foloko was recognised for his unwavering commitment and ten years of impactful leadership in the development of sport across Southern Africa. The honour reflects his efforts in championing sport as a powerful tool for unity, youth empowerment, and regional growth.
In his acceptance speech, Foloko expressed deep gratitude to the region’s heads of state for their continued belief in the power of sport to shape societies. He also acknowledged the support of regional confederations and Olympic colleagues for their partnership in driving initiatives that have advanced sport throughout the Region. “I dedicate this award to all the athletes from across the region who sweat every day to bring the much-needed results and glory to their nations through their sporting achievements,” he remarked.
The award follows closely after Foloko received the President’s Award from the Zambian Head of State, H.E. President Hakainde Hichilema, in recognition of his exemplary and inspiring sports leadership, both at home and internationally.
A key figure in the growth of judo, Foloko played a significant role in introducing the sport to the AUSC Region 5 Games, making it more accessible to young athletes across Southern Africa. He served as Technical Delegate to AUSC Region 5 between 2014 and 2018, ensuring technical excellence in the delivery of the Games. His leadership in the Judo Confederation—as General Secretary from 2012 to 2018 and later as President until 2021—was marked by transformative initiatives that continue to benefit the sport today.
Foloko’s recognition was part of a memorable night celebrating sporting excellence across the region. Botswana dominated several categories, with rising sprint star Letsile Tebogo being named both Sportsman of the Year and overall Sportsperson of the Year. Malawi’s Tabitha Chawinga claimed the Sportswoman of the Year title for her outstanding performances in football, while Zambia’s Mercy Chipasula took home the Junior Female Sportsperson of the Year award. In the junior male category, Botswana’s Collen Busand Kebinatshipi was honoured for his achievements in athletics.
South Africa saw notable victories as well, with Simone Kruger winning Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability in discus, and Mpumelelo Mhlongo recognised as Sportsman of the Year with a Disability for his T44 athletics performance. The Botswana men’s 4x400m relay team was celebrated as Team of the Year, and their coach, Kebonyemodisa Mosimanyane, received the Coach of the Year accolade. The swimming discipline was named Confederation of the Year, while Zimbabwe shone as both Sports Nation of the Year and home of Sports Journalist of the Year, Elina Mhlanga.
These recognitions reflect the strength, diversity, and upward trajectory of sport in the region. As AUSC Region 5 continues to nurture talent and foster collaboration, the contributions of visionary leaders like Alfred Foloko remain central to sustaining momentum and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
