Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu has opened the two-day National Football Indaba today at the Zambian Italian Cultural Centre in Lusaka, calling for transparency and merit-based selection in the Chipolopolo national team.
The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, National Sports Council of Zambia, and Football Association of Zambia have organized the event to address longstanding public concerns about player selection processes under the theme “Defining the Future: Exploring Key Factors for Sustainable Football Development in Zambia.”
The gathering has brought together government officials, club representatives, coaches, referees, development partners, and FIFA representative David Fane.
Nkandu has urged enhanced technical planning, stronger player development systems, and improved coaching standards, stressing that football must operate as a business venture that creates employment and attracts investment.
Football Association of Zambia President Keith Mweemba had called for accountability from players and stakeholders in football.
Mweemba has disclosed that nearly the entire Copper Queens squad boycotted playing, with only six players reporting for training.
he has warne that indiscipline will not be tolerated, adding that certain players have been inciting teammates and creating unrest within the squad, and those responsible will be dropped.
The players resumed training following discussions with the Football Association of Zambia, with the Copper Queens securing a 1-1 draw against hosts Malawi on Sunday.
The Ministry of Sport organized the Indaba, which has drawn various football stakeholders, including Zambia National Soccer Team legends.
By Canaan Siame
