Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) presidential hopeful Keith Mweemba has pledged to make referee welfare a top priority if elected into office, promising improved remuneration and working conditions for match officials across the country.
Speaking during a campaign engagement, Mweemba emphasised the indispensable role referees play in the football ecosystem and underlined the need to treat them with the respect, motivation, and professionalism they deserve.
“Referees deserve to be motivated because they play a crucial role in ensuring fair play and enforcing rules in the game of football,” Mweemba stated.
“Without them, the game would not function. They need to be empowered, appreciated, and supported in their service.”
Mweemba, who is vying for the FAZ presidency in the upcoming elective Annual General Meeting (AGM), said his administration would introduce policies that guarantee timely and fair compensation for referees. He believes that better financial support will not only enhance professionalism but also reduce the risk of bias and controversy in officiating.
“We will ensure early payments of officiating allowances and explore ways to increase their earnings,” he promised.
“This is essential for maintaining the integrity of the game and attracting more young people into refereeing as a serious career.”
Mweemba also highlighted plans to introduce continuous professional development programs for referees and establish a transparent reward system based on performance and merit. According to him, these reforms will restore confidence in match officiating and raise the overall standard of football in Zambia.
His remarks come at a time when concerns over referee welfare have become increasingly vocal in football circles, with delays in payments and limited resources frequently cited as issues affecting the quality and consistency of officiating.
As the race for FAZ leadership intensifies, Mweemba’s focus on referee welfare is expected to resonate strongly with stakeholders seeking a more professional and inclusive approach to football governance.
The upcoming FAZ elective AGM—set to be reconvened within 21 days following FIFA’s directive—will be a decisive moment for Zambian football, with candidates like Mweemba offering bold promises aimed at transforming the sport from the grassroots up.