Zambian football is in mourning following a tragic bus crash that claimed the lives of seven players from Chavuma Town Council FC. The accident occurred on Saturday as the team was en route to a third-tier league match in the northwest region of the country.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) expressed its “deep shock” over the incident. FAZ president Andrew Kamanga stated, “We are in touch with the football, civil, and law enforcement authorities in the province to furnish us with full details.”
In addition to the fatalities, twelve others sustained injuries in the crash, with five individuals evacuated to Lusaka, the capital, for medical treatment. The names of the deceased and injured players have not yet been disclosed.
Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), extended his condolences, stating, “I convey my personal and CAF’s deepest condolences. May God comfort and console the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and the Football Association of Zambia. May the souls of the departed players rest in eternal peace.”
Artur de Almeida e Silva, president of the Southern Africa regional football associations, described the loss of young lives in such a tragic manner as “truly heartbreaking.”
As the football community comes together to mourn this devastating loss, tributes are pouring in for the players who dedicated their lives to the sport. The impact of this tragedy will be felt across Zambia, where football is not just a game but a vital part of the nation’s identity.
