Zambia’s Katema and Mwale Reach Commonwealth Games Round of 16
Zambia’s boxing team made an impressive statement at the 2026 Commonwealth Games after Emmanuel Katema and Mwengo Mwale booked their places in the round of 16 with commanding victories in their respective opening bouts.
Competing in the men’s 65kg division, Katema delivered one of Zambia’s standout performances of the day, stopping Sri Lanka’s Chamil Pathmasir with a knockout victory in the round of 32. His dominant display underlined his medal ambitions as he comfortably secured progression to the next stage of the tournament.
In the men’s 55kg category, Mwale celebrated his birthday in unforgettable fashion after defeating Tanzania’s Faki Issa Faki by Referee Stops Contest (RSC). The convincing victory not only earned him a place in the round of 16 but also made his special day one to remember.
Elsewhere, Zambia’s lawn bowls team enjoyed mixed fortunes. Foster Banda and Gertrude Siame suffered defeat against tournament favourites Australia in the women’s pairs before responding brilliantly with a hard-fought victory over the Isle of Man. After dropping the opening set 6-3, the duo rallied to win the second set 7-2 and sealed the contest in a tie-break to claim Zambia’s first lawn bowls victory of the Games.
In swimming, Zach Moyo etched his name into the record books after setting a new national record and personal best of 1:05.00 in the men’s 100m breaststroke, finishing 24th overall. Mia Phiri and Jade Phiri also produced determined performances in the women’s 50m butterfly as Zambia’s 22-member team continues its campaign at the Commonwealth Games, which concludes on August 2, 2026.
