EVEN as the government tightens the tap on funding to the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) over the poor performance of the senior men’s national football team, it has assured that outstanding arrears owed to players and coaches will still be paid.
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The National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) said the move to suspend new funding does not mean the government is abandoning its existing obligations to the sport.
According to NSCZ director and chief executive officer Sombwa Musunsa, the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts is fully aware of several financial commitments owed to FAZ, which include salary arrears for both the men’s and women’s coaches, as well as winning bonuses, drawing bonuses and various allowances.
“We wish to reiterate and inform the public and stakeholders that government through the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts is committed to settling all outstanding arrears that have been incurred to date,” said Musunsa.
Musunsa explained that the suspension of funding is a temporary measure, prompting FAZ to provide a clear roadmap on how it intends to restore the performance and competitiveness of the men’s national team.
He noted that while the government has spent heavily on the team, the results have not matched the investment.
This follows Zambia’s 1-0 defeat to Niger in Ndola, which ended the country’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Musunsa further stated that government remains firm on transparency, accountability and performance-based funding for all sports federations, saying taxpayer money must translate into results on the field.
For now, the ball remains in FAZ’s court to convince the government with a detailed roadmap before funding can resume.
By George Musonda
Kalemba October 14, 2025
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