An official signing ceremony for NOCZ House in Lusaka took place on the sidelines of the Hammamet 2023 Africa Beach Games in Tunisia.

The agreement says NOCZ should provide "conclusive proof of land ownership" where the new headquarters will be built.

The NOCZ is also responsible for securing a building permit from local authorities "adhering to the model proposed by ANOCA, which will then be subject to approval by the grantor".

"The deadline for the execution of the construction works, as defined in the agreement, is set at 18 months from the date of notification of the service order, marking the official commencement of the project," a statement from NOCZ read.

NOCZ chief Alfred Foloko was present when the agreement was signed along with ANOCA President Mustapha Berraf.

They were accompanied by NOCZ vice-president Hazel Kennedy, secretary general Boniface Kambikambi, and Zambia's Hammamet 2023 Chef de Mission Mutale Masala.

Foloko believes the new headquarters will enhance the nation’s ability to support and develop its athletes and called it a "landmark accomplishment".

"The NOC House will stand as a magnificent flagship, igniting progress and serving as a dynamic hub to drive key initiatives within the NOCZ strategy," said Kambikambi.

"With its state of the art facilities and cutting-edge infrastructure, it will provide a vibrant space for fostering athlete development, promoting sports excellence, and nurturing a culture of innovation and collaboration.

"This remarkable structure will embody the NOCZ's commitment to advancing sports in Zambia, amplifying its influence and impact within the sporting community and beyond."

This initiative is part of ANOCA's plans to establish dedicated headquarters for National Olympic Committees across the continent.