The government says Konkola Copper Mines’ new partnership with FAZ signals a “new dawn” for Zambian football, with women’s football set to benefit most.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lusaka on July 3, Permanent Secretary for Youth, Sport and Arts Kangwa Chileshe said the deal was a testament to private sector confidence under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.
“This event is not merely a celebration of partnership… it is a powerful testament to the shared vision of progress,” Chileshe said.
He noted KCM’s history of football support, from sponsoring the FAZ Super League from 2005 to 2011, to backing clubs like Nchanga Rangers, Konkola Blades and Aguila Stars.
Chileshe singled out KCM’s sponsorship of Nchanga Queens, Konkola Queens and Aguila Stars Women as “perfectly aligned with our policy focus on inclusivity and gender equity.”
He said the new sponsorship of the Copper Queens and a planned Women’s League Cup competition was “timely and transformative.”
“Our women’s national teams have consistently made us proud… yet, for too long, corporate engagement has not reflected this stellar success,” he said.
Chileshe urged other corporates to follow KCM’s lead, citing opportunities in Copper Queens travel kits and the Chipolopolo’s 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
He concluded: “This is the New Dawn in action; where vision, partnership, and sport converge to build a brighter future for all Zambians.”
Present at the event were Mines PS, National Sports Council GS, FAZ Vice President Mutale N’gandu and General Secretary Charles Chakatazya, and KCM Executive Director._
