Deputy Air Force Commander Major General Henry Chiwaya has attributed the recent growth of women’s football in Zambia to strong policies introduced by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ). Speaking during the launch of the Red Arrows Women’s Football Club kit at Chamba Valley Officers Mess in Lusaka, Chiwaya highlighted that FAZ’s structured approach has created a supportive environment for female players. He emphasized that the resurgence of the women’s game is a result of deliberate policy interventions that prioritize development and professionalism. Acting FAZ Deputy General Secretary Iva Lengwe joined the event, underscoring the significance of such initiatives for the country’s football landscape.
Chiwaya noted that women’s teams previously depended heavily on the goodwill of men’s teams for resources and support, but the situation has now changed. He cited Red Arrows Women’s Football Club as an example, which recently secured a kit sponsorship deal thanks to support from the Zambia Air Force (ZAF). “The women’s team didn’t have direct sponsorship, but now the Command is providing much-needed support, including securing kit sponsorship,” he said. Chiwaya stressed that this approach ensures women’s teams receive dedicated backing and recognition, contributing to overall growth and competitiveness.
Lengwe praised ZAF for its commitment to advancing women’s football through the kit launch. She highlighted that such launches are common in major football leagues globally and seeing them locally indicates progress in the professionalization of the women’s game. “We are proud of what you have done as ZAF. Kit launches are usually only seen in Europe. This means we are one step closer to professionalizing our women’s league,” she said. The launch, she noted, sets a high standard for other clubs and signals a shift toward structured support for female players.
The FAZ official also expressed hope that other women’s football clubs will emulate Red Arrows Women’s Football Club by prioritizing sponsorships and professional management. “The aim is to set the bar high and make women’s football competitive,” Lengwe said. She further thanked the club for supporting national teams by promptly releasing players whenever they are summoned for duty. The collaboration between ZAF, FAZ, and Red Arrows demonstrates a coordinated effort to grow the women’s game and create opportunities for female footballers across Zambia.