SOLWEZI OPEN WATER SWIM BRINGS OPEN-WATER SWIMMING TO THE NORTH-WESTERN PROVINCE
Solwezi, Zambia – 3 October 2026
Kansanshi Mining PLC is proud to host the Solwezi Open Water Swim at the Solwezi Mine Dam, marking an exciting step towards growing swimming and open-water sport in Zambia’s North-Western Province.
The event has attracted 42 swimmers, competing across six distances ranging from the challenging 6 km long-distance swim to the 200 m Kids & Family Splash.
The event has been designed to welcome experienced swimmers, juniors, families and those taking their first steps into open-water swimming, while placing a strong emphasis on water safety and responsible participation.
Comprehensive safety measures have been put in place, including risk management studies, lifesavers, safety boats, kayakers, shore-based spotters, medical support and personal flotation devices. Water conditions have also been tested ahead of the event.
The Solwezi Swim forms part of KMP Sports Office’s wider commitment to creating sporting opportunities within Solwezi and the North-Western Province.
“This is our first open-water swim, but we hope it is the start of something much bigger. We want to encourage more people to swim, create opportunities for our young swimmers and ultimately put the North-Western Province on Zambia’s swimming map.”
Kansanshi Mining PLC also extends its appreciation to the sponsors, partners, volunteers, safety personnel and swimmers who have supported the event.
The Solwezi Open Water Swim takes place on Saturday, 3 October 2026 at the Solwezi Mine Dam.
SOLWEZI TO HOST NATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS AS ATHLETES TARGET AFRICAN QUALIFICATION
Solwezi will host the National Cross Country Championships 2026, bringing together athletes competing for national honours and selection to represent Zambia at the African Cross Country Championships.
Speaking during the launch, Kansanshi Mining PLC Corporate Affairs Manager Ryan Ellis said the event would mark the first time the national championship is held outside Lusaka or Kabwe.
Ellis said hosting the competition in Solwezi would give local athletes an opportunity to compete against the country’s best while inspiring young people to pursue sporting ambitions.
He explained that Solwezi’s rapid growth as a mining town has attracted many young people seeking opportunities, making investment in sport essential for building healthy and active communities.
Ellis said sport provides purpose, friendships and ambition, helping protect young people from drug abuse, excessive alcohol consumption and other vices. He added that Kansanshi’s investment in sport supports the Grow Zambia agenda by promoting health, fitness and youth development.
Meanwhile, the Zambia Athletics President praised Kansanshi for its continued investment in athletics, describing the mine as a dependable development partner.
The President said the championships would serve as a qualifying competition for the African Cross Country Championships, with athletes competing across senior men, senior women, junior men and junior women categories.
Schools and community members have also been invited to participate, as Zambia Athletics seeks to identify talent at grassroots level and encourage healthy lifestyles.
The President said athletics offers opportunities beyond competing, including careers in coaching, officiating and sports administration, while prize money would recognise athletes’ dedication and hard work.
Both speakers emphasised the importance of strong partnerships in developing talent and creating pathways for young Zambians to compete on the continental and international stage.