Arsenal Fans Drive New Mother and Child Shelter in Lusaka
The Arsenal Zambia Supporters Association (AZSA) has unveiled plans to construct a mother and child shelter at Lusaka Hearts Hospital as part of its ongoing corporate social responsibility efforts.
Speaking during the launch of the Arsenal Africa Fans Festival (AAFF) on the night of 4 December, Association President Engineer Vernon Ngulube highlighted the vital role that mother shelters play in providing safe and dignified spaces for mothers and caregivers.
He noted that many hospitals lack such facilities, forcing caregivers to sleep in corridors or hallways, a situation the Association hopes to address through its initiative.
Engineer Ngulube explained that the AAFF, scheduled for 3 to 5 April 2026, is more than just a gathering of football supporters. He said the festival will unite fans and the wider community through a shared commitment to charity, with proceeds and awareness efforts supporting the mother shelter project.
“The festival is much more than a gathering of football fans; it is a unique opportunity with far-reaching benefits that resonate deeply with our community values,” he said. “At its core, the festival shines a spotlight on critical causes such as the mother shelter at the Hearts Hospital, demonstrating how sport and charity unite to uplift the vulnerable among us.”
He added that AZSA’s work is rooted not only in passion for Arsenal Football Club but also in social harmony and community upliftment, reflecting what he described as the African spirit of Ubuntu.
Representing the Minister of Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. Rodney Sikumba, the Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Hon. Mike Mposha, commended the initiative. He noted that the expected arrival of more than 1,000 fans from across Africa for the AAFF would significantly contribute to tourism and national economic activity.
“Festivals like this do more than just celebrate sport; they drive tourism, spur economic growth and foster youth empowerment on a grand scale,” he said. He further highlighted that the influx of visitors would boost the hospitality sector and enhance commerce, from hotels to transport services, while showcasing Zambia’s cultural and natural attractions to international audiences.
Also present at the launch were Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary Engineer Joe Kalusa, Arsenal Zambia’s UK contact person Mr Davis Mumba, renowned Zambian musician Mozegeta, and Zambia National Service representative Mr Nason Phiri, all of whom expressed support for the Association’s initiatives.
