Zambia Mourns the Loss of Seven Footballers in Tragic Bus Crash

Zambia is grieving after a devastating bus crash claimed the lives of seven players from Chavuma Town Council FC. The accident occurred on Saturday as the team was en route to a third-tier league match in the northwestern part of the country.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) expressed its “deep shock” over the tragedy, with FAZ president Andrew Kamanga stating that they are coordinating with local authorities to gather more details. In addition to the fatalities, 12 others were injured, with five in critical condition requiring evacuation to the capital, Lusaka, for advanced treatment. The identities of those involved have not yet been released.

Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), extended his condolences and expressed hope for the recovery of the injured players, stating, “May God comfort and console the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.”

Artur de Almeida e Silva, president of the Council of Southern Africa’s regional FAs, echoed these sentiments, calling the loss of young lives “truly heartbreaking.” He emphasized that football, which unites communities with pride and joy, has been struck by immense grief.