LUSAKA, Zambia – June 2, 2026 – Newly appointed Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary Charles Chakatazya has reaffirmed the importance of strong collaboration between the Government and football authorities as Zambia continues its efforts to develop the sport and achieve greater success on the international stage.
Mr. Chakatazya made the remarks during a courtesy call on the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Kangwa Chileshe, at his office in Lusaka.
The visit comes just weeks after Chakatazya’s appointment as FAZ General Secretary and marks one of his first official engagements aimed at strengthening cooperation between the football governing body and Government.
Accompanying Mr. Chakatazya were Deputy General Secretary Iva Lengwe and FAZ Finance Manager Owen Buntele.
During the meeting, Chakatazya expressed gratitude to the Government for its continued support towards football development in Zambia, particularly the national men’s and women’s football teams.
He emphasized that the long-standing partnership between FAZ and Government remains essential in improving the performance, competitiveness, and international standing of Zambian football.
“The support that Government continues to provide plays a critical role in helping our national teams compete effectively on the continental and global stage,” Chakatazya noted.
The FAZ General Secretary also highlighted preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), revealing that the association has organized a Four Nations Tournament to help the Copper Queens prepare for the prestigious continental competition.
The tournament is expected to take place at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola and will feature four participating nations: Zambia, Kenya, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe.
Football stakeholders believe the tournament will provide valuable competitive experience for the Copper Queens as they fine-tune preparations for WAFCON and seek to build on their recent successes in women’s football.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe congratulated Chakatazya on his appointment and assured him of Government’s commitment to working closely with FAZ to promote football development across the country.
Chileshe stressed the importance of ensuring that the Copper Queens receive adequate support and preparation ahead of WAFCON.
He challenged the team to approach the tournament not simply as participants but as serious contenders capable of competing for top honors.
“The Copper Queens should go to WAFCON with the ambition of achieving success and demonstrating Zambia’s growing strength in women’s football,” Chileshe said.
The meeting reflects the continued commitment by both FAZ and Government to strengthen football administration, improve national team performance, and create opportunities for the growth of the sport at all levels.
As Zambia intensifies preparations for upcoming international competitions, collaboration between football authorities and Government is expected to remain a key pillar in the country’s sporting ambitions.