Esther Siamfuko Makes History as Zambia Names Her Chef de Mission for Malta Youth Games

Esther Siamfuko has been selected to lead Team Zambia at the 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta, becoming the first young person appointed to the delegation’s top role, according to the Commonwealth Games Association of Zambia (CGA-Zambia). CGA-Zambia president Alfred Foloko announced that Siamfuko will serve as Chef de Mission. The Games are scheduled to run from October 29 to November 4, 2027, as Zambia steps up preparations for the international event. Siamfuko currently chairs the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) Athletes Commission and sits on the CGA-Zambia board as an athletes’ representative. Foloko said the appointment reflects his intention to give young sports figures opportunities to take on leadership responsibilities at major competitions. According to NOCZ media, Foloko said having a young leader in charge could help ensure athletes are represented and understood, while encouraging more youth involvement in sports administration. He also urged national federations whose sports are included in the Malta programme to work with Siamfuko and support preparations. The CGA-Zambia Secretariat is expected to provide administrative and coordination support as planning continues. Zambia has been allocated eight open entries across athletics, swimming, squash and triathlon. Participation in netball, para athletics, para swimming and weightlifting will depend on invitations from the relevant international federations, Foloko said. The Malta Games are expected to bring together about 1,150 competitors aged 14 to 18 from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories, competing across eight sports. Siamfuko’s appointment places her at the centre of Zambia’s preparations for the youth event.