Fridah Mukoma Joins Kansas City Current, Becomes Fifth Zambian Signed by NWSL Club

19.03.2025 | Football DNA

Zambian football continues to make headlines on the global stage, as 18-year-old forward Fridah Mukoma becomes the latest talent to secure a move to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Mukoma has joined Kansas City Current from Zambian Women's Super League leaders ZESCO Ndola Girls for an undisclosed fee, signing a four-year contract that extends through 2028.

A Landmark Move for Zambian Football

Mukoma’s signing marks her as the fifth Zambian player to join an NWSL club, following in the footsteps of Orlando Pride’s trio—Barbra Banda, Grace Chanda, and Prisca Chilufya—as well as Bay FC’s Racheal Kundananji. Her transfer further cements Zambia’s growing presence in one of the world’s top women’s football leagues.

Kansas City Current confirmed the deal in a statement:

“The Current have also signed Zambian forward Fridah Mukoma through 2028 via a transfer with ZESCO Ndola Girls that included an undisclosed transfer fee. Mukoma has been subsequently loaned to Beijing Jingtan FC through the 2025 season.”

Loan Move to China

Mukoma will spend the 2025 season on loan at Beijing Jingtan FC in China, where she has already made a remarkable impact. She made headlines by scoring a brace on her debut for Beijing Oriental, leading her team to a 3-0 victory in the Chinese women’s league.

Her journey to the NWSL has been fueled by a standout year in 2024, where she excelled for ZESCO Ndola Girls, scoring five goals and providing 13 assists in 30 appearances. Her stellar performances earned her the Young Player of the Year award and a call-up to the Zambia Women’s National Team.

Recognized Among the World’s Best Young Talents

Mukoma’s rise has not gone unnoticed, as she was included in Goal.com’s Top 25 Next-Gen Female Football Prospects, ranking at No. 22. The recognition came on the back of her performances at the 2024 COSAFA Women’s Championship, where she emerged as joint-top scorer alongside Lubanji Ochumba.

Full list of Goal.com’s Top 25 Next-Gen Prospects: Click Here

A Bright Future Ahead

Mukoma’s transition from ZESCO Ndola Girls to Kansas City Current places her among the next generation of African football stars making their mark on the international stage. Though she will begin her journey in China, her ultimate goal remains to prove herself at Kansas City Current, where she will link up with Malawian forward Temwa Chawinga.

Her recent performances, including a spectacular bicycle kick goal in China, have only added to her growing reputation. With Zambia’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) squad selection approaching, Mukoma is making a strong case for inclusion by national team coach Nora Häuptle.

At just 18 years old, Fridah Mukoma’s journey is only beginning, but she has already demonstrated the potential to be a key player for both club and country. As she continues her development, Zambian fans will be eagerly watching her progress on the international stage.