Former Zambian Soccer Maestro, Rainford Kalaba, in Critical Condition After Tragic Accident

ZimTimes Staff

In a surprising turn of events, it has been confirmed that Rainford Kalaba, a prominent figure in Zambian football, is alive despite earlier reports of his death. Kalaba, affectionately nicknamed “Maestro,” was involved in a serious road accident near Lusaka on April 13, resulting in the tragic death of a female passenger.

The President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, shared a message on his Facebook page about Rainford Kalaba: “Wishing you a quick recovery, legend and hero. The nation prays for you, Bally.”

TP Mazembe, Kalaba’s former club, issued a premature condolence message on social media today, mourning his supposed passing. However, they have since retracted the statement and apologised, as it has been proven to be inaccurate.

“Rest peacefully, our esteemed ‘Maestro.’ Unfortunately, Rainford Kalaba did not survive a tragic road accident on Saturday, April 13, between Kafwe and Lusaka in Zambia. However, TP Mazembe later issued a correction, emphasizing the importance of accuracy. Despite being initially declared deceased by emergency services, Kalaba is now in critical condition at the hospital, placed in an induced coma by the attending doctors due to the severity of his injuries.”

At present, Rainford Kalaba is in critical condition at the University Teaching Hospital, where he’s been induced into a coma as a treatment measure. Hospital officials have verified that although Kalaba’s condition is grave, he is indeed alive, and medical teams are working diligently to ensure he receives optimal care.

Rainford Kalaba, at 37 years old, is renowned for his distinguished soccer journey, excelling on both the global and club stages. Notably, he played a pivotal role in Zambia’s 2012 AFCON victory and secured numerous championships with TP Mazembe, such as the CAF Champions League, CAF Confederation Cup, and CAF Super Cup, leaving an indelible mark on African football.

Football enthusiasts and supporters around the globe are extending their prayers and well wishes to Kalaba and his loved ones amidst this difficult period, remaining optimistic for his complete recuperation. This evolving narrative underscores the significance of ensuring accuracy amidst the urgency to disseminate information. Rainford Kalaba continues to demonstrate resilience, both in his sporting endeavors and personal challenges.

Lusaka Times has reported that Rainford Kalaba, the former Zambia National Team captain, is in critical condition following a tragic accident on Saturday, April 13, 2024, along the Great North Road at Kafue S Corners near Kafue Quarry.

According to Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga, the incident involved a Howo truck horse with registration number AIC 805 and trailer number BAC 9540, as well as an unregistered Mercedes Benz car. Mr. 

Muyunda Isaac, aged 32, of Kamwala South, was driving the Howo truck, while a woman identified as Charlene Mkandawire was driving the Mercedes Benz car from south to north. Unfortunately, Mkandawire succumbed to her injuries at the scene, while Kalaba of Mufurira, Copperbelt Province, sustained suspected internal injuries and was promptly transported to UTH for urgent medical attention. 

Preliminary investigations suggest that the accident occurred due to improper overtaking by the Benz car, resulting in a collision with the oncoming truck.