Football Association of Zambia president Keith Mweemba has urged provinces to rethink how they present football, calling for a shift toward building a strong, marketable product that can attract serious investment. Speaking during the FAZ Central Province Ordinary Annual General Meeting in Kabwe, Mweemba made it clear that the future of the game depends on how well it is packaged and promoted to potential partners. He stressed that football must move beyond being just a sport and become a structured and appealing brand that sponsors can trust and invest in. His message focused on the need for professionalism, strategic thinking, and consistent delivery at all levels of the game. This approach, he explained, is key to unlocking financial support and ensuring long-term sustainability for Zambian football.
Mweemba highlighted the importance of presenting football as a credible and valuable product that can compete for corporate sponsorship. He pointed to the Afriseed sponsorship secured by FAZ Central Province as a practical example of how regions can attract meaningful partnerships. According to him, such deals show that there is real potential within local football structures if they are properly managed and marketed. He emphasized that partnerships like these are not just about funding but about building relationships that can support growth over time. Expanding this model across other provinces, he said, will help raise standards and make competitions more competitive. His remarks reinforced the idea that financial backing plays a direct role in improving the quality and visibility of the game.
The FAZ president also made it clear that the association is shifting away from empty promises and focusing on measurable results. He stated that Zambian football has spent too much time on talk without action, and that the current leadership is committed to discipline, consistency, and accountability. Mweemba called on all stakeholders to align with this vision and work toward delivering tangible outcomes. He stressed that progress will only come through collective effort and a shared sense of purpose across clubs, provinces, and administrators. This renewed focus on performance is expected to strengthen the credibility of football structures and attract more confidence from investors.
In addition to structural and financial reforms, Mweemba underscored the importance of developing local coaching talent as part of FAZ’s long-term strategy. He called for continued support for local coaches, noting that their growth is essential for sustained success at national level. He also revealed that Zambia is gaining increased recognition on the global stage, pointing to the upcoming international friendly against world champions Argentina as evidence of this progress. Furthermore, he disclosed that the Zambia Under-23 national team is targeting qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games, with early preparations set to begin through participation in a four-nations tournament in Botswana. These developments reflect a broader ambition to elevate Zambia’s presence in international football.
The AGM also featured contributions from Kabwe Central Member of Parliament Chrizoster Phiri, who emphasized the importance of education for football players. He pointed out that football careers are often short, making it critical for players to prepare for life beyond the pitch. Phiri encouraged stakeholders to prioritize education alongside athletic development, stating that a well-educated player is better equipped to succeed both during and after their career. His remarks added an important dimension to the discussion, linking sports development with personal growth and long-term stability. This perspective highlights the need for a holistic approach to player development within the football ecosystem.
FAZ Central Province chairperson Chisanga Pule provided insight into the progress being made at provincial level, noting improvements in the football environment under the current leadership. He credited the Mweemba-led executive for creating opportunities for growth and strengthening operational structures. Pule highlighted the renewal of the Afriseed sponsorship and the RUZ ball distribution deal as signs of positive momentum. However, he also raised concerns about ongoing challenges, including rising match violence, the use of ineligible players, and issues with officiating. These concerns, he said, must be addressed to ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the game.
Mweemba’s call to action signals a critical moment for Zambian football, where success will depend on the ability to combine strong leadership, strategic marketing, and disciplined execution. His emphasis on transforming football into a credible and investable product reflects a clear vision for growth and sustainability. By encouraging provinces to adopt professional standards and attract corporate support, FAZ is laying the groundwork for a more competitive and respected football system. At the same time, the focus on education, coaching development, and addressing structural challenges shows a commitment to building a well-rounded football culture. If these efforts are implemented effectively, Zambian football stands to gain both locally and on the global stage.