By FAZ Media
Families, FAZ officials and supporters gathered at Heroes Acre to mark 33 years since the 1993 plane crash in which the Zambia’s national football team died.
The ceremony which involved laying of wreath honoured the players and officials whose loss remains one of the country’s most painful moments.
FAZ Lusaka Province Chairperson Jordan Maliti, representing FAZ President Keith Mweemba, said the anniversary still carries deep emotions for the nation.
“Today marks the 33rd anniversary since the nation endured its darkest moment… a moment that still carries painful memories despite the passage of time,” Maliti said.
He said the team was among the finest Zambia has produced and was widely expected to qualify for the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
“To every Zambian who witnessed this team’s pedigree, there was always a feeling that they were destined to take Zambia to the 1994 USA FIFA World Cup,” he said.
Maliti said Zambia still has a responsibility to fulfil that dream in honour of the fallen players. We have a duty to realise our nation’s lingering World Cup dream to fully honour these gallant men,” he said.
He added that FAZ wants commemorations to go beyond Lusaka, with activities planned in all provinces to revive national interest in football.
Maliti also thanked the families for their continued presence at memorial events, saying their strength has helped keep the memory of the team alive.
And speaking for the families, Tamalilapo Mtonga described the fallen heroes as symbols of unity and national pride.
“Our fathers did not just play football. They carried the hopes and dreams of an entire nation on their shoulders,” Mtonga said.
She called for greater support towards maintaining the site, saying. This ground is not just a burial site. It is holy ground… a place where Zambian football history lives and breathes.”
Mweemba has directed all FAZ Provincial offices to participate in nationwide commemorative activities in honour of the fallen heroes.
