Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has unveiled a landmark ZMW93 million (US$5 million) sponsorship agreement with the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), committing to a five-year partnership aimed at transforming football development across the country.
The investment, one of the biggest corporate commitments to Zambian football in recent years, will see KCM become the Official Partner of FAZ while also taking over as title sponsor of the KCM FAZ Cup. The sponsorship extends support to both the men’s and women’s national teams and is designed to strengthen football development from grassroots level through to elite competition.
The announcement comes shortly after KCM backed the Copper Queens ahead of the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with the mining giant now broadening its investment to cover football across all levels. The company says the initiative reflects the passion of its employees for the sport and their desire to contribute to Zambia’s continued success on the continental and global stage.
KCM Board Chairman Dr Moses Banda described the partnership as an investment that goes beyond football itself.
“We are incredibly proud to partner with the Football Association of Zambia at the behest of our passionate employees, once again. Football has a unique ability to unite communities and inspire future generations. Through this partnership, we are investing not only in the game but also in the development of young talent, national pride and community wellbeing across Zambia,” Banda said.
FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya hailed the sponsorship as a major milestone for Zambian football, saying it would strengthen the game’s growth at every level.
“Partnering with KCM to support football at both national and club level is a significant milestone for FAZ. This sponsorship will strengthen the growth of the game, enhance our competitiveness across all levels and create more opportunities for players, coaches and supporters throughout the country,” Chakatazya said.
KCM already ranks among Zambia’s leading corporate investors in sport, spending more than US$7 million annually on sports development programmes. The company currently sponsors Nchanga Rangers, Konkola Blades, Nampundwe United and Aguila Stars, supporting men’s and women’s teams as well as junior academies. Those investments have helped produce top talents, including Copper Queens star Rachael Kundananji.
The latest agreement also marks a return to a familiar partnership. Between 2005 and 2011, KCM sponsored Zambia’s National League, which became widely known as the KCM League, while the company also supported the Chipolopolo’s preparations for their historic 2012 Africa Cup of Nations triumph.
With this fresh ZMW93 million commitment, KCM has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to strengthening domestic football, creating pathways for emerging talent and helping Zambia remain competitive on both the African and global stage.
