AFTER decades of turning defenders into decorations and making goalkeepers question their career choices, the 2012 AfCON winner is finally leaving the pitch at 45.
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James ‘Jemba Jemba’ Chamanga, outgoing Red Arrows striker and football icon, says football has given him everything but it is the love from Zambian fans that will be hardest to leave behind as he prepares to hang up his legendary boots this afternoon at Nkoloma Stadium.
Chamanga, who is set to play his final professional match when Red Arrows take on Zanaco in a highly anticipated Week 34 MTN Super League fixture, said he will miss the the drums and chanting of supporters whenever he scores during a match.
The 44-year-old Red Arrows striker, whose career stretches from Makumbi Stars to South Africa, China and back home, says the local football atmosphere leaves the biggest hole in his heart.
“Internationally, I will miss the fame, but locally I will miss the drums. I will miss the supporters and the celebration… the dancing, the singing after you score. Playing is different from coaching or sitting in the stands. Those are the moments I will miss in the game,” said Chamanga.
Today’s fixture carries double weight for the legend.
Not only does it mark the end of his playing career, it pits him against his former club Zanaco, who are fighting for their Super League lives.
The Bankers are just a stumble away from relegation to National Division One, and fate has paired them with one of their own in what could be their final blow.
While the Airmen celebrate a fruitful season, the spotlight today at 15:00 hours will be on Chamanga as fans will pack Nkoloma with free entry not just for football, but for farewell, and drums will beat for one last time in his honour.
By George Musonda
Kalemba May 17, 2025
