Govt applauds Japan for construction of athletes’ hostels

Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to ensure that the Olympic sport grows in the country by financing the construction of athletes hostels through Grant assistance for Cultural Grassroots Project.

Japanese  Ambassador Shuichiro Nishioka announced this on Saturday in Lilongwe that in line with Sports Tomorrow Initiative, his government wants to promote sports across for masses.

“Through this grant, a hostel for athletes is currently being constructed under the Malawi Olympic Committee [MOC]. This is aimed at leaving a long- lasting impact in sports towards 2020 and beyond,” said Nishioka during a cocktail reception organised for athletes that took part in the Marathon and Olympic Day celebration

Minister of Sports and Youth Development Grace Chiumia has since commended Japan, describing the country as a true partner in the development of sports in the country.

“The construction of the athlete’s hostels will go a long way in providing safe environment of our athletes to prepare for games. Not only that but you are also supporting various sports activities like judo and kendo,” said Chiumia.

Malawi and Swaziland did well in the men’s and women’s marathon that took place earlier in the day with Ndacha Mchelenje wining the 42-kilometre category.

Mike Tebulo was second and Zambian Matthews Mutanya was third.

In the women’s category, Winile Mnisi from Swaziland won gold followed by Bhiri Tawapo and Mercy Kalunga from Zambia.

Malawi, South Africa, Botswana, Swaziland, Zambia, Mozambique and Japan took part in the Marathon.