Mweemba Vows Unity, Quick Fix in Sakala Row on Football House Debut
Newly elected Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Keith Mweemba officially assumed office on Monday with a strong call for unity, transparency, and inclusive development during his inaugural visit to Football House.
Accompanied by Vice President Mutale Ng’andu, Women’s Representative Col. Priscilla Katoba, Eastern Province Chairperson Patrick Nyirenda, and Lusaka Province Chairperson Jordan Maliti, Mweemba addressed staff members and held his first media briefing, laying out his vision for Zambian football.
In a message aimed at easing staff anxieties, Mweemba stressed the importance of respecting labour rights and fostering a supportive work environment. “We have not come here to victimize anybody. Labour laws must be respected, and employees’ rights upheld,” he said. “We want to have a motivated workforce and will prioritize improving the conditions of service for our hardworking employees.”
Mweemba emphasized the need for continuity and collaboration with past FAZ leadership, signaling a willingness to consult former presidents, including Andrew Kamanga, Teddy Mulonga, and Kalusha Bwalya. “If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it,” he said, advocating for unity and experience to steer football forward.
He pledged to decentralize football administration by equipping all 10 provinces with essential tools such as printers for player cards, reinforcing his commitment to inclusive grassroots development.
On the competitive front, Mweemba set ambitious goals for Zambia’s participation in continental tournaments and international qualifiers. “We need the four CAF slots back for our clubs. If we support our coaches and prepare adequately, we can aim to win both the AFCON and WAFCON. Qualifying for the World Cup is non-negotiable,” he declared.
In a significant move to avoid conflict of interest, Mweemba announced his resignation as president of MTN Super League side FC MUZA. “I am now a property of all,” he stated, signaling his impartial commitment to national football.
He also addressed the ongoing rift between star forward Fashion Sakala and national team coach Avram Grant. “Both are important to the team, and the matter will be resolved. Leadership begins with unity,” Mweemba affirmed.
