Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts

The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts wishes His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, a happy 64th birthday. We commend your dedicated leadership and commitment to national development, youth empowerment, sport, and the arts, and wish you good health, happiness, and continued success in your service to the nation.

ARMYWORM THREAT CONTAINED AS NATIONAL HEROES STADIUM TURF RECOVERS

The armyworm infestation that recently affected the pitch at National Heroes Stadium has been successfully contained, with the hybrid turf regaining its colour and quality.

Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary Mr. Kangwa Chileshe yesterday visited the facility to assess the progress made in restoring the playing surface following last month's armyworm attack.

Mr. Chileshe expressed satisfaction with the work undertaken to restore the turf, noting that significant progress has been made in bringing the pitch back to the required standard.

He said the resumption of full operations at the stadium is something many Zambians have been eagerly anticipating and assured the public that government remains committed to ensuring the facility is fully operational and compliant with FIFA standards.

Mr. Chileshe added that substantial resources have been invested in restoring the pitch and revealed that the installation of the two remaining roofing panels will be completed soon.

Meanwhile, turf contractor Marius Van Niekerk said the procurement of a turf protector would play a crucial role in safeguarding the playing surface.

He explained that the turf protector would help prevent damage during non-sporting events held at the stadium, thereby preserving the quality of the pitch.

Mr. Van Niekerk further noted that the playing surface will require regular maintenance, including specialised treatment every three months, depending on usage levels, to ensure its quality, durability and longevity are maintained.

PREPARATIONS FOR REGION 5 GAMES IN MAPUTO, MOZAMBIQUE

The Director of Sport at the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Mr. Gibson Muyaule, yesterday addressed delegates ahead of the Region 5 Youth Games scheduled to take place in Maputo, Mozambique.

Speaking during a preparatory meeting, Mr. Muyaule emphasized the importance of organisation, discipline, responsiveness and effective coordination in the ex*****on of duties before and during the Games.

He urged all delegates to adequately prepare for the trip and commended those who participated in last year's edition of the Games for their commitment and contribution.

Mr. Muyaule said the meeting was aimed at aligning expectations and ensuring that all plans are implemented efficiently to achieve the desired results. He stressed the need for timely communication, accuracy, accountability and proper coordination across all sport disciplines.

He further noted that government, through the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, has continued to support athletes and sports development programmes. He therefore called on all participants to give their best performance and represent Zambia with pride at the regional competition.

NSCZ, VARUN BEVERAGES SIGN THREE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP FOR ZAMBIA CLIMATE RUN

The National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) and Varun Beverages Zambia have signed a three-year sponsorship agreement that will see the beverage company become the Official Hydration Sponsor of the Zambia Climate Run for the next three editions.

Speaking during the event, Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary Mr. Kangwa Chileshe described the partnership as a significant step towards promoting healthy lifestyles, environmental sustainability, and national development through sport.

He said climate change remains one of the greatest challenges facing Zambia, affecting livelihoods, food security and the overall well-being of citizens, making initiatives such as the Zambia Climate Run increasingly important.

Mr. Chileshe noted that the annual event provides a unique platform to raise awareness on climate change while encouraging participation in sport, particularly among young people. He added that sport has the power to mobilise communities and inspire collective action towards environmental responsibility.

The Permanent Secretary commended both NSCZ and Varun Beverages for demonstrating leadership through a partnership that extends beyond sport and contributes to broader national development objectives.

National Sports Council of Zambia Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sombwa Musunsa said the partnership with Varun Beverages represents a deliberate effort by stakeholders to collectively advance climate action while complementing government's efforts towards environmental protection and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Mr. Musunsa expressed confidence that the collaboration would enhance the reach and impact of the Zambia Climate Run, helping to drive greater public participation and awareness on climate-related issues across the country.

Meanwhile, Varun Beverages Head of Marketing, Magalie Ngomba Mwila, said the company was proud to support an initiative that combines sport, health and environmental awareness.

Ms. Mwila said climate change continues to affect communities across the world and that the Zambia Climate Run offers an effective platform for educating and engaging citizens on environmental responsibility while promoting active lifestyles.

She added that the sponsorship, through AquaClear, reflects Varun Beverages' commitment to sustainability, recycling awareness and community impact. She said the partnership represents a shared commitment between government, the private sector and sporting institutions to build a cleaner, greener and more climate-conscious Zambia.

The Zambia Climate Run has also received additional support from the Payments Association of Zambia (PAZ), which has joined the list of sponsors backing the initiative. The organisation was represented by its Research Assistant, Mr. Mark Chirwa.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2 June 2026

NEW FAZ GENERAL SECRETARY PAYS COURTESY CALL ON PERMANENT SECRETARY

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary Mr. Charles Chakatazya today paid a courtesy call on the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Mr. Kangwa Chileshe, at his office in Lusaka.

Mr. Chakatazya, who was appointed to the position last month, reaffirmed the importance of continued collaboration between FAZ and Government in advancing the development of football in Zambia.

The FAZ General Secretary was accompanied by his deputy Mr. Iva Lengwe and Finance Manager Mr. Owen Buntele.

During the meeting, Mr. Chakatazya expressed appreciation to Government for its unwavering support towards football development, particularly the men's and women's national teams. He noted that the partnership between FAZ and Government remains critical in enhancing the performance and competitiveness of the national teams on the international stage.

Mr. Chakatazya further highlighted preparations for the forthcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), revealing that FAZ has organised a Four Nations Tournament as part of the Copper Queens' build-up to the continental showpiece.

The tournament, scheduled to take place at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, will feature Zambia, Kenya, Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

In his remarks, Mr. Chileshe congratulated Mr. Chakatazya on his appointment and assured him of Government's continued commitment to working closely with FAZ in promoting and developing football across the country.

Mr. Chileshe also urged the association to ensure that the Copper Queens are adequately prepared for WAFCON, emphasizing the need for the team to participate not merely as contenders, but as genuine competitors capable of achieving success at the tournament.

Issued by:
Nchimunya Bobby Ng'andu (Mr.)
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts

CYCLING HERO JAMES FALANGA PAYS COURTESY CALL ON PS CHILESHE

2nd June, 2026

Celebrated Zambian long-distance cyclist and cultural ambassador, James Falanga, popularly known as One Yeye International, today paid a courtesy call on the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Mr. Kangwa Chileshe.

The courtesy call follows Mr. Falanga’s historic 37-day cycling expedition from Lusaka, Zambia, to Cape Town, South Africa.

Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Falanga expressed gratitude to the government for the warm reception accorded to him upon his return from South Africa last week.

He encouraged young people, particularly those who may not have had the opportunity to attain formal education, to embrace and develop their talents. While emphasizing the importance of education, he noted that talent can also serve as a pathway to success and self-reliance.

Mr. Falanga further revealed that he had been gifted a piece of land on which he hopes to establish a centre dedicated to talent development and skills training for young people.

And speaking during the meeting, Mr. Chileshe commended Mr. Falanga for his outstanding efforts in promoting Zambia’s rich cultural heritage and advancing sports tourism through his remarkable achievements.

The Permanent Secretary stated that the Ministry will engage Mr. Falanga as a Youth Ambassador to inspire and motivate more young people across the country to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to national development.

Mr. Chileshe also thanked Mr. Falanga for undertaking the historic cycling expedition and assured him that the Ministry would explore ways of supporting his future initiatives.

Issued by:
Nchimunya Bobby Ng’andu (Mr.)
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts
Nchimunya.Ng'[email protected]

A special good morning to Arsenal supporters across Zambia.

The result may not have gone your way, but that's the beauty of sport, there's always another season.

The Champions League cabinet is still waiting for its first tenant.

Until next season, keep the faith. ⚽️

POWER DYNAMOS DOMINATE MTN SUPER LEAGUE AWARDS AS GOVERNMENT, FAZ PRAISE FOOTBALL GROWTH

Newly crowned MTN Super League champions Power Dynamos capped off a remarkable 2025/2026 season by dominating the MTN Super League Awards held at Garden Court Hotel in Kitwe on Friday night.

The Kitwe giants, who successfully retained the league title, scooped several major awards, highlighting their dominance both on and off the pitch.

Power Dynamos head coach Osward Mutapa was named Coach of the Season, while the club's prolific striker Moses Shumah emerged as one of the biggest winners after claiming the Golden Boot Award with 21 goals and the Fans' Player of the Season accolade.

Red Arrows midfielder Albert Kangwanda won the prestigious Player of the Season award, while Kabwe Warriors goalkeeper Mangani Banda walked away with the Golden Glove Award. Power Dynamos midfielder Fredrick Mulambia was recognized as the Most Disciplined Player of the Season, while FC MUZA youngster Given Kalusa scooped the Young Player of the Season award.

Speaking during the ceremony, Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary Mr. Kangwa Chileshe congratulated Power Dynamos on successfully defending the league title and commended Shumah for becoming the first player in a decade to surpass the 20-goal mark in a single league campaign.

Mr. Chileshe reiterated government's commitment to supporting football development through infrastructure upgrades, talent development programmes and enhanced private sector participation.

He further emphasized the importance of good governance, integrity and professionalism in the management of sport.

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Mr. Keith Mweemba urged award winners and players to remain disciplined and continue working hard in order to achieve even greater success in their careers.

Mr. Mweemba thanked MTN Zambia for its 16-year partnership with FAZ and also acknowledged TopStar and government for their continued support towards football development. He noted that football remains a powerful tool for youth empowerment, social transformation and national unity.

The FAZ president also expressed delight at the return of prolific goal-scoring in the local league, describing Shumah's achievement as a positive development for Zambian football.

Meanwhile, Zambia Premier League Chief Executive Officer officer Mr. Joseph Chimpampwe described the 2025/2026 campaign as one of the most exciting and competitive seasons in recent years. He said the league would intensify fan engagement initiatives and continue working with clubs to improve stadium infrastructure ahead of the new season.

And MTN Zambia Acting Chief Commercial Officer Aaron Simumba reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting football and sports development in Zambia, stating that MTN would continue investing in initiatives aimed at nurturing talent and empowering the next generation of athletes.

The ceremony also recognized excellence among match officials and media practitioners, with Charles Ng'andwe winning Referee of the Season, while Chansa K***a of ZNBC was named Television Journalist of the Season. Power Dynamos supporter Kennedy "YellowMan" Chishala was crowned Fan of the Season.