Zambian Football Community Grieves After Seven Players Die in Bus Accident

The football community in Zambia is grieving following the deaths of seven players from Chavuma Town Council FC in a bus accident. The Football Association of Zambia (Faz) conveyed its “deep shock” regarding the incident, which took place on Saturday as the team was en route to a third-tier league match in the nation’s north-western region. Faz president Andrew Kamanga stated, “We are in touch with the football, civil and law enforcement authorities in the province to furnish us with full details.” The crash also resulted in injuries to twelve other individuals, five of whom have been transported to Lusaka, the capital, for medical attention. The identities of the deceased and injured individuals have not yet been disclosed. Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (Caf), conveyed that he and the organization “hope and pray” for the swift and complete recovery of those who sustained injuries. In a statement, Motsepe further remarked, “I convey my personal and Caf’s deepest condolences.” He continued, “May God comfort and console the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased and the Football Association of Zambia.” Motsepe concluded, “May the souls of the departed players rest in eternal peace.” Artur de Almeida e Silva, who presides over the council of Southern Africa’s regional Football Associations, described the tragic loss of young lives in this incident as “truly heartbreaking.” In a letter addressed to his counterpart at Faz, he stated, “Football is a sport that unites us, bringing joy and pride to communities across our region.” He added, “In this tragic moment, we share in your grief and offer our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends who are mourning this immense loss.” He concluded, “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are still receiving treatment for their injuries.”