FIFA President Gianni Infantino made his maiden trip to the country on Thursday, where he launched the FIFA-funded FAZ Accommodation Centre in Lusaka, a project worth $300,000.
The centre will provide much-needed facilities for junior and women’s teams, reducing costs and enhancing their development.
During the visit, Infantino also paid his respects to the victims of the 1993 Gabon Air Disaster at the memorial site in Lusaka, a poignant reminder of the tragedy that struck Zambian football.
In addition to the launch, Infantino met with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and Elvis Nkandu from the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts on Wednesday evening. The meeting highlighted Zambia’s gratitude for FIFA’s support in technical and infrastructure development.
President Hichilema emphasized the universal appeal of football and urged FIFA to introduce business training for footballers, enabling them to manage their earnings post-retirement or in case of injury.
He also stressed the importance of resolving football management disputes through dialogue.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between FIFA and FAZ, paving the way for the establishment of a FIFA Technical Centre in Zambia.
The centre will enhance football infrastructure and provide capacity-building opportunities for coaches and administrators.
The visit and launch of the accommodation centre underscore the strengthening ties between FIFA and Zambia, promising a brighter future for Zambian football.
