Kalusha Bwalya to participate in a special high-level football tournament at the UN

FOOTBALL icon Kalusha Bwalya will participate in a special high-level football tournament for Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in New York on June 16, to promote the role of sports in achieving sustainable development and peace.

In a statement issued by permanent mission of the Republic of Zambia to the United Nations first secretary for press and public relations Chibaula Silwamba, Kalusha, alongside other renowned international football players Nwankwo Kanu (Nigeria), Frank Rijkaard and Aaron Winter (both of The Netherlands) will be star players/coaches of Permanent Representatives accredited to the United Nations from various countries across the world, who will participate in the tournament.

Permanent Missions of Zambia and The Netherlands to the United Nations in conjunction with KNVB and Cruyff Foundation are organisers of the first-ever tournament on the terrace of the UN Delegates Dining Room facing the East River. Cruyff Foundation will set up an artificial football pitch.

Mr. Silwamba stated that at least three female Permanent Representatives, including the US’ Samantha Power, have signed up to play alongside their male counterparts in the few-minutes competition.

He stated that the game will draw the attention of the international community to the role that football, and its celebrities, could play to promote the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals and achieving peace and security in the world.

“Kalusha and his colleagues will also feature on the UN Secretary General’s Spokesperson Noon media briefing where they will engage the international media about sports, development and peace. The stars will also hold a football clinic for children, and several other engagements organized by The Netherlands Mission to the UN,” Mr. Silwamba stated.

“Kalusha is African Footballer of the Year 1988, Confederation of African Football (CAF) Executive Committee member, FIFA Football Committee Member, board member of Champions of the Environment and Africa10. Kalusha is highly respected across the world for his football prowess, and has participated in Zambian football for over three decades in various capacities.”