Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has congratulated sprinter Muzala Samukonga on his bronze medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympics, saying it has filled the country with “immense pride”
Samukonga, 21, produced a heroic performance to win a bronze medal in the men’s 400m final at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Thursday night
In a social media post, the President wrote: “We have our Olympic medal! Congratulations @MuzalaSamukonga, your performance at the #Paris2024 #Olympics fills us with immense pride. #ZambiaKuChalo”
Samukonga, who clocked a national record time of 43.74 seconds in the 400m final, retweeted the President’s message, simply stating: “Thank you Mr President.”
President Hakainde Hichilema last year presented Samukonga with The President’s Insignia of Meritorious Achievements in a ceremony that took place during the Africa Freedom Day Commemoration event held at State House on May 25, 2023.
This was in recognition of Samukonga’s accomplishments, including his gold medal victory in the 400m at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Samukonga’s historic bronze is Zambia’s first Olympic podium finish since the 1996 Atlanta Games, ending a 28-year drought for the southern African nation.
Samukonga’s achievement has sparked widespread celebrations across Zambia, with citizens taking to the streets and social media to congratulate the young sprinter.
The President’s praise underscores the significance of this moment for Zambia’s sporting legacy, with the triumph sure to inspire the next generation of athletes.
