By Lucky Chama 
The OYDC Zambia – Sports Development Centre has officially opened its doors to wheelchair tennis, marking a historic step for inclusive sport in the country.
The development follows a courtesy visit by International Tennis Federation (ITF) White Badge Chair Umpire and Wheelchair Tennis Consultant, Patrick Selepe of South Africa, who introduced the sport through exhibition matches at OYDC’s tennis courts. Selepe, a key figure in growing wheelchair tennis across Southern Africa, was joined by Zambian Tennis Association President Lighton Musonda, National Paralympic Committee President John Kinuna, and General Secretary Moses Chishimba.
Welcomed by OYDC Programs Manager Mwange Kampamba and Lodge Manager Lily Ngosa, the delegation witnessed Zambia’s first official wheelchair tennis demonstrations. Selepe praised the centre’s facilities and Zambia’s potential to embrace the sport, referencing its rising global profile and medal-winning performances at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
“As part of the introduction, I will conduct demonstrations and clinics for wheelchair tennis, and I will return at a later stage to review the progress,” Selepe said. He stressed the importance of offering platforms for athletes with disabilities to compete and excel.
Musonda confirmed that OYDC Zambia will serve as the official training base for wheelchair tennis in the country, while Kampamba expressed pride in the centre’s inclusive mission.
“We are happy that wheelchair tennis has finally come to Zambia. We will work hand in hand with the federation to ensure the sport grows,” Kampamba said.
The move aligns Zambia with other Southern African nations already developing wheelchair tennis, opening up new opportunities for athletes and reinforcing the country’s commitment to inclusive sporting excellence.
News Desk 
Cecilia Chiluba