THE Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has been given an ultimatum to provide a detailed justification for why government should continue funding the association and explain measures being taken to improve the senior men’s national football team’s performance.
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In a letter seen by Kalemba today, Government through the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts suspended government financial support to FAZ over the senior men’s national team’s continued poor performance in recent international matches.
Yesterday, Zambia blew away the final chance to make the forthcoming World Cup to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico next year after Niger defeated the team in Ndola by a goal to nil.
In the letter dated October 13, 2025, addressed to FAZ General Secretary, Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe said the ministry was concerned that despite heavy government spending, the Chipolopolo had failed to produce satisfactory results on the pitch.
“The Ministry is writing to express its concern regarding the continued poor run of results recorded by the senior men’s national football team in recent international engagements,” Chileshe stated.
He said government had continued to channel significant financial resources to the national team, including costs for accommodation, air tickets, winning bonuses, and part of the head coach’s salary, despite the country’s financial constraints.
“This support has been extended at a considerable cost to the taxpayer, making it imperative for us to seek a clear justification for its continuation, especially in the absence of commensurate results,” the letter read.
Following instructions from minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Elvis Nkandu, the ministry halted further funding to the men’s national football team until FAZ provides a “clear roadmap” for restoring Zambia’s football competitiveness.
Chileshe said while government recognises football’s importance in promoting national pride and unity, there must be accountability and measurable results in return for public investment.
He assured that the ministry remains committed to settling outstanding arrears owed to both the men’s and women’s national team coaches, as well as other obligations such as bonuses and allowances already incurred.
FAZ has been given until October 20, 2025, to respond with a detailed report to guide government’s next course of action.
Kalemba October 13, 2025
