Fwayo Tembo: A Journey of Football, Challenges, and Giving Back
- Crispin Ngulube
- Dec 18, 2024
- 2 min read
18.12.2024 | Sportsboom.com
Fwayo Tembo, a name once synonymous with Zambian football brilliance, has opened up about his journey, reflecting on his career and his mission to make a difference in his community. Despite criticism from some quarters, the former Chipolopolo winger insists his football career was anything but mismanaged. Instead, he says his early retirement was caused by health issues, not personal failings.
In an interview with Sportsboom.com Tembo revealed, “I played football at the highest level. Everyone dreams of playing in the UEFA Champions League, and I achieved that. I enjoyed my career and have no regrets.”
Tembo’s career came to an end in 2018 at the age of 29 due to a hip injury and spinal problems. Over the years, many fans had speculated that his career was derailed by personal struggles, including alleged alcoholism. Tembo strongly refuted these claims, saying, “I also want to play, but my health doesn’t allow it. My spine and hip problems are what led to my retirement.”
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A Stellar Career Fwayo Tembo’s football journey began in earnest when he moved to Tunisia in 2008 at just 18 years old. He signed with Étoile Sportive du Sahel and went on to win the Tunisian Ligue 1 championship. In 2010, he secured a high-profile move to FC Basel in Switzerland for a reported €1.2 million. While at Basel, Tembo competed in the UEFA Champions League group stage, facing elite teams like Bayern Munich.
His career also included stints at Astra Giurgiu (Romania), Hapoel Ra’anana (Israel), and local clubs Power Dynamos and Lusaka Dynamos. Across these clubs, Tembo left an indelible mark with his technical skills and dynamic performances. He also made 24 international appearances for Zambia, further cementing his legacy as one of the country's top talents.
Emotional Connection to Football Since retiring, Tembo has found it difficult to watch football, particularly when the Zambia National Team is in action. “I don’t watch football, especially when Chipolopolo is playing. I cry too much because I wish I could still be out there playing,” he admitted.
Giving Back to the Community Now residing in Lusaka’s Mtendere Township, Tembo has shifted his focus to helping young people avoid the pitfalls he has observed over the years. He founded Ma Yusi (The Youths), an amateur football club aimed at keeping the youth away from drugs and alcohol.
“I noticed that many youths in my community were drinking and smoking too much. I thought starting this club could help them stay focused and give them a purpose,” he explained.
However, the initiative faces financial challenges, and Tembo has called on well-wishers to assist in sustaining the club. “We need sponsorship to keep this going. It’s all about giving back and ensuring the next generation has better opportunities,” he said.
A Call for Support Fwayo Tembo’s story is one of resilience and a commitment to using his experiences to uplift others. Through Ma Yusi, he hopes to provide a platform for young talent while steering them away from negative influences.
As he continues his mission, Tembo remains a shining example of how former athletes can channel their passion for football into meaningful community impact.
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Credit: Sportsboom.com
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