By Sr. Beatrice Mwansa, DOR, Lusaka CNCS Hub
THE Communication Network for Catholic Sisters (CNCS) has launched its inaugural Sisters Race and Relay aimed at supporting the construction of a modern kitchen at Chileshe Chepela Special Needs School in Kasama.
Held under the theme “Run for Faith and Service,” the event attracted athletes, Catholic sisters, families and members of the public from across the Archdiocese of Lusaka in a show of faith, unity and support for children with special needs.
Zambia Athletics (ZA) president Major Bernard Bwalya commended the sisters for organising the initiative and pledged continued support from the athletics body.
Major Bwalya said the race had been included on the Zambia Athletics calendar and expressed confidence that participation would grow in future editions.
“The major marathons we see today started with only a few runners. We have included this event on the Zambia Athletics calendar and every year we will participate and support this noble cause,” he said.
He added that the event had also created an opportunity to identify young athletic talent through the association’s Catch Them Young programme.
“We are introducing young people to athletics and creating opportunities for them to develop their talent. Next year, we hope to see even greater participation. We are grateful to the sponsors, the media and everyone who supported this event,” said Major Bwalya.
Meanwhile, Chileshe Chepela Special Needs School headteacher Sr. Yawila Elizabeth said the race was organised to support the construction of a new kitchen at the school.
She said the existing kitchen was in a poor state and no longer adequately met the needs of learners.
“The existing kitchen is dilapidated and not in good condition. Considering the nature of our children, it is important that they have meals prepared in a safe and suitable environment,” said Sr. Elizabeth.
She thanked individuals, companies and other well-wishers for supporting the initiative, saying their contributions reflected a commitment to improving the welfare of children with special needs.
“We are grateful to everyone who contributed their time and resources to this noble cause. Their support is helping the children and we encourage them to continue supporting such initiatives in the future,” she said.
Watch: Chileshe Chepela Special Needs School Documentary
The race was organised to support the construction of a modern kitchen at Chileshe Chepela Special Needs School in Kasama. Watch our documentary to learn more about the school and the children who will benefit from the project.
And CNCS Director Sr. Rose Nyondo thanked Zambia Athletics, participants, sponsors, families and young people for supporting the event.
Sr. Nyondo described the race as an expression of faith and service, saying it was aimed at supporting vulnerable members of society while promoting wellness, solidarity and community engagement.
“This is not just about running. It is about living our faith and fulfilling our responsibility to care for our brothers and sisters who are less privileged than we are,” she said.
And Sr. Elizabeth Musonda of the Congregation of the Little Sisters of St. Francis, who finished third in the 5km category, called on more sisters to participate in future editions of the race.
She said the initiative supported children with special needs while promoting healthy living among participants.
“The message I can give to those who were not present is that next time, when we have activities like this, let us all participate for the good of those children and also for the good of our health,” she said.
