By GODFREY DUBE  –
ORIENTAL Quarries Boxing Promotions (OQBP) is in desperate need of a K70, 000 shortfall in trying to host an international boxing tournament late this month in Solwezi.
OQBP Director Promotions Christopher Malunga said his stable was presently short in terms of sponsorship for the tournament billed or April 28 but expressed confidence the money would be raised by the time of the tournament.
Malunga said however, that the key requirements like sanction fees and other payments to the Boxing Board of Control (BBC) have been sorted out and other issues moving in the right direction.
“Foreign boxers arrive in the country on April 23 while officials are expected to be in Solwezi on the 26th. Our platinum sponsor (FQM) is committed to making sure the tournament becomes a success. We want to re-assure Solwezi residents that the tournament is on,” Malunga said.
And former WBC female bantamweight gold champion Catherine Phiri says the tournament was important to the Solwezi residents as it emphasises on the fight against early marriages.
“Looking at the theme of the tournament ‘Fighting Early marriages’, it is important for well-meaning Zambians to join hands in the fight against early marriages,’’ Malunga said.
A total of eight bouts have been lined up with Catherine fighting Tanzanian Halima Yadimu in an eight-rounder with featherweight champion Alfred Muwowo taking on Patrick Kimweri and former WBC welterweight Silver champion Charles Manyuchi facing Karage Suba.
Female bantamweight boxer Barbra Banda taking on Flora Machella with Mbiya Nkanku fighting Ntumba Mwamba, Gracious Simwalizi facing Philemon Hara while Remmy Simbeya would have a bout against Regina Malele.