Since 2009, CSL has brought communities together for a one-day sporting event held on the grounds of Mfuwe Airport. This fun-filled event aims to celebrate, understand and value the importance of conservation efforts in South Luangwa.
The day begins with a 10K run, and new for 2024, a half marathon, following the introduction of a 20K run in 2023 to mark CSL’s 20th anniversary. Other sporting activities include mixed executive relays featuring a 50m sack race, a 50m egg and spoon race, a 100m three-legged race, and a 100m sprint. There is also the much-anticipated tug of war, as well as games of volleyball, netball and the Zambian Carnivore Programme (ZCP) Cup football final. The ZCP football tournament final has formed part of the sports day since 2018. Entertainment takes place throughout the day, including lively theatre and music performances, and traditional dances. The event concludes with speeches and the presentation of prizes.
The event has gained momentum each year and is an annual highlight for more than 6,000 people. CSL is grateful to CSL board member, Evans Graph, for coordinating the day, and Elephant Charge for sponsoring the event.
June 2024
Led by the newly formed Tetezani Luangwa Alliance, consisting of CSL, Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust and ZCP, and supported by Wildlife Crime Prevention, Project Luangwa and Elephant Charge, the theme for the 2024 Fun Run was Tetezani zachilengedwe chifukwa cha anthu ndi nyama (Protecting the environment for people and wildlife). In addition to the half marathon, new activities included aerobics and face painting. A highlight was the participation of renowned Zambian footballer, Collins Mbesuma, who joined the Tribal Textiles team in the tug of war final against the eventual winners, the Zambia Police Service. Maureen Mulenga, a member of the human-wildlife conflict Rapid Response Unit, took first place in the half marathon’s over-40s category.
Photo credits: Mjose Jozie. Video: Wildlife Crime Prevention (WCP)
June 2023
After a three-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic, CSL was thrilled to see so many members of the local community, supporters and partners enjoy the return of the CSL Fun Run and Sports Day. New for 2023 was a 20K run to celebrate CSL’s 20th anniversary. The Zambian Air Force won the tug of war in their final against Zambia National Airports.
Photo credits: Mjose Jozie