3 donate towards Catherine’s house

Mwamona Engineering gave Catherine K20, 000 while Tyre King and Zambian Fertilizer Limited donated K10, 000 and K1, 000 respectively.
Speaking during a cheque presentation ceremony at Government Complex in Lusaka yesterday, Minister of Youth and Sport Chishimba Kambwili said Phiri’s achievement has inspired many people especially the youths.
Kambwili, who made a donation on behalf of Mwamona Engineering, said Government will continue to recognise sports men and women who excel in their disciplines.
He said motivating athletes will contribute towards the development of sports in the country.
Kambwili also pledged K50, 000 from the Ministry of Youth and Sport towards purchase of Catherine’s house.
“Our budget is K499, 000 towards Catherine Phiri’s purchase of a house. So far we have raised K81, 000 leaving us with a shortfall of K418, 000. The K50, 000 will be considered in next year’s budget.
“The nation might recall, I made a commitment that my ministry will facilitate the process of opening a bank account where deposits will be made from well-wishers to enable the government purchase a house on behalf of our boxing champion, this is as a result of positive professional boxing victories she [Catherine] has continued to record,” Kambwili said.
He commended companies that contributed towards the purchase of the house.
He also lauded Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions for promoting amateur and professional boxing in the country.
Kambwili said the ministry will purchase a semidetached house worth K469,000 from National Housing Authority along Kasangula Road.
“I, therefore, want to appeal to other corporate and individuals who want to register their appreciation for what our boxer has achieved to consider contributing towards the purchasing of the house,” he said.
And Tyre King branch manager Modester Banda commended Phiri for her achievements.
“To underscore the importance of girl child education and also to acknowledge the potential role model that Catherine’s fame and commitment to education can have on the child. We congratulate her for being a disciplined role model to other girls and pupils across the country,” she said.
In appreciation, Phiri gave Kambwili a set of boxing gloves.
“I [Kambwili] will use these gloves against NSCZ chairman Mwamba Kalenga. Our fight will be two rounds. He [Mwamba] trains from the gym, I train from the street, prepare yourself,” Kambwili said jokingly after thanking Phiri for the present.