THE Zambia Women’s National team took a giant leap towards Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games with a wholesale Covid-19 vaccination exercise at National Heroes Stadium.

Coach Bruce Mwape led his technical bench and squad in getting the jab ahead of the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games to be held from July 23 – August 8, 2021.

Mwape and his squad are all too familiar with the Covid-19 pitfalls having been quarantined for more than in fortnight in Santiago during their international friendly match in December 2020.

The team also got knocked out of the Turkey Eight-Nation Invitational tournament after being hit by Covid-19 cases.

Ministry of Youth, Sport and Child Development Permanent Secretary Dr. John Phiri, Director Sport John Zulu, National Sports Council of Zambia acting general secretary Raphael Mulenga and Olympic bound boxers also got the jab.

Speaking in an interview with the FAZ Media Team, Matero Sub-District Public Health Specialist Naomi Kabonde said the approved vaccine is aimed at boosting the athletes’ immune system and protecting them and their families ahead of the Tokyo Games.

“We have vaccinated our athletes that are going to the Japan Olympics because as you know, the COVID vaccine is very important because a lot of people have lost lives caused by the virus, so as we get the jab, we are also boosting our immune system,” Dr Kabonde said.

“I am very happy with the turnout and the athletes have been sensitized about the importance of the vaccine and they have accepted it, the vaccine has been approved and it is safe for use.”

The International Olympic Committee recently stated that although not taking the vaccine is not compulsory, athletes are encouraged to get vaccinated ahead of the biggest sports extravaganza.

Meanwhile, the Copper Queens will learn their fate on Wednesday when the draws are made for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics Women football tournament.

Zambia is in Pot 4 alongside New Zealand and Chile for the 12 team tournament.