Zambia’s football community has been shaken by a tragic bus accident that claimed the lives of seven players from Chavuma Town Council FC. The team was en route to a third-tier league match in the northwestern region of the country when the accident occurred, leaving the nation in mourning.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) released a statement expressing “deep shock” at the accident. FAZ President Andrew Kamanga confirmed they are coordinating with local authorities to gather comprehensive details of the incident. Alongside the seven fatalities, twelve other passengers sustained injuries, with five of the more critically injured being transferred to the capital, Lusaka, for further treatment.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe conveyed his condolences, stating, “May God comfort and console the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and the Football Association of Zambia. May the souls of the departed players rest in eternal peace.” Similarly, Artur de Almeida e Silva, head of Southern Africa’s regional FAs, shared in Zambia’s grief, calling the loss of young lives “truly heartbreaking.”
The identities of those killed and injured have not been disclosed as families and loved ones mourn this profound loss. The accident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges teams often face when traveling across Africa for matches, underscoring the need for support in enhancing safety measures for athletes. The Zambian football community, and indeed the global football family, stands united in grief and support during this tragic time.
