Lusaka, May 9, 2025 — In a landmark moment for Zambian football, Keith Mweemba has been elected as the new President of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), marking the end of a fiercely contested and dramatic election process held in Kabwe, central province. Mweemba emerged victorious in a four-candidate race, defeating incumbent president Andrew Kamanga, who had led Zambian football since 2016.
The FAZ presidential election, held in Lusaka, was a culmination of a turbulent period for the association. Earlier attempts to conduct the election were halted by a court injunction, delaying the process and intensifying the competition among the candidates. The rescheduled election saw Mweemba, a prominent figure in Zambian football administration, secure a decisive victory with 45 votes. Kamanga, who was seeking a third term, garnered 20 votes, while former FAZ General Secretary Adrian Kashala received 17 votes. Former FAZ Vice President and ex-footballer Emmanuel Munaile did not secure any votes.
Mweemba’s victory signals a new chapter for FAZ, as he steps into the role with a mandate to advance Zambian football on both domestic and international stages. His campaign focused on revitalizing grassroots football, improving infrastructure, and fostering greater transparency within the association. Supporters of Mweemba have hailed his election as a step toward fresh leadership and renewed ambition for the sport in Zambia.
The election process was closely watched, given the high stakes and the competitive field of candidates. Andrew Kamanga, who had been at the helm for nearly a decade, was credited with stabilizing FAZ during his tenure and securing sponsorships for the association. However, critics argued that his leadership had faced challenges, including controversies over governance and the performance of the national team, the Chipolopolo.
Adrian Kashala, a seasoned administrator, and Emmanuel Munaile, a former player with deep ties to the football community, also brought strong credentials to the race. Their participation underscored the diversity of perspectives vying to shape the future of Zambian football.
The FAZ election outcome is expected to have far-reaching implications for the sport in Zambia, particularly as the country prepares for upcoming international competitions, including qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. Mweemba’s leadership will be closely scrutinized as he navigates the challenges of modernizing the association while addressing the expectations of fans and stakeholders.
Football analysts have already begun speculating on Mweemba’s priorities, with many pointing to the need for investment in youth academies, better training facilities, and stronger partnerships with international football bodies. The new president will also need to address the lingering divisions from the election and work to unify the football community.
As Keith Mweemba assumes the presidency, the Zambian football fraternity is filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. His vision, leadership, and ability to deliver on his promises will determine the trajectory of FAZ and the sport’s growth in the nation.
For now, Zambian football celebrates a new era under Mweemba’s stewardship, with hopes that his tenure will bring success, unity, and pride to the nation’s beloved sport.
