The Zambian Government has given the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) seven days to explain what measures have been put in place to ensure that national team coach Avram Grant is performing according to his contract, amid growing public frustration over the Chipolopolo’s disappointing results.
In a strongly worded letter titled “Request for justification for continued government financial support despite the men’s national team’s poor run of results,” the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts has also asked FAZ to show cause why government funding for the men’s national team should not be suspended.
Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe, writing on behalf of the ministry, said the government remains concerned about the national team’s continued poor performances despite substantial financial backing from the state.
MORE NEWS FROM WAMPIRA
“The Ministry is writing to express its concern regarding the continued poor run of results recorded by the senior men’s national football team in recent international engagements,” reads part of the letter addressed to FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shapenda.
“As a key stakeholder in the development of football in the country, we believe it is essential to understand the rationale behind continued government funding in the face of these disappointing performances.”
Accountability for Public Funds
Chileshe noted that, despite Zambia’s tight fiscal situation, government continues to shoulder the costs associated with the national team, including Grant’s salary, player bonuses, accommodation, and air travel.
Despite the current financial constraints facing government, significant resources continue to be allocated to support the national team and the technical bench, including expenditure on accommodation, air tickets, winning bonuses, and a portion of the coach’s salary,” he said.
“This support has been extended at a considerable cost to the taxpayer, making it imperative for us to seek a clear justification for its continuation, especially in the absence of commensurate results on the pitch.”
The letter comes just a day after Zambia’s 1-0 home defeat to Niger in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier played at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola — a result that deepened public discontent with Grant’s leadership.
Government Demands Clarity on Grant’s Performance
The Ministry has asked FAZ to outline how it monitors Grant’s performance and what corrective measures are being implemented to improve the team’s fortunes.
Specifically, FAZ has been directed to respond to three key questions:
- What measures are being taken to address the team’s current poor performance and ensure long-term competitiveness?
- What mechanisms are in place to monitor the head coach’s performance in line with his contract?
- Why should government funding not be suspended or terminated given the lack of results despite heavy public investment?
Funding Halted Pending Roadmap
Chileshe emphasized that transparency and accountability in the use of public funds are non-negotiable, noting that football remains a critical part of Zambia’s national identity and pride.
“We must ensure that public investment yields meaningful outcomes and drives real progress in the sport,” he wrote.
“By providing a clear and compelling justification for continued financial support, we can work together toward building a stronger and more sustainable football sector that benefits all Zambians.”
Acting on the directive of Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu, the Ministry has temporarily halted financial support to the men’s national team until FAZ submits a credible roadmap to restore competitiveness.
“Following the guidance from the Honourable Minister, the Ministry has halted support to FAZ (men’s national team) until a clear roadmap is provided on the restoration of Zambian men’s football,” Chileshe stated.
While acknowledging outstanding commitments to FAZ — including unpaid salaries, bonuses, and allowances — Chileshe said future support will depend on the association’s detailed response, which must be submitted no later than October 20, 2025.
Discover more from Wa Mpira
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
