Infantino Pledges Continued FIFA Support for Zambian Football

17.06.2025 | Football DNA

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and FAZ President Keith Mweemba at the FIFA Football Summit in Miami, USA

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed FIFA’s steadfast commitment to the growth and development of football in Zambia following high-level talks with Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President Keith Mweemba.

The meeting, held in Miami during the FIFA Football Summit, served as a strategic engagement to explore new avenues for collaboration, with a shared vision to uplift Zambian football from grassroots to elite levels.

“Zambia has a great passion for football, which I saw during my visit there last year,” said Infantino, referencing his June 2024 tour of the country. “Today’s meeting with FAZ President Keith Mweemba was an opportunity for me to reaffirm FIFA’s commitment to continue supporting football development.”

A central theme of the discussions was the FIFA Forward Programme, which channels investment into key areas such as infrastructure, technical development, and youth football. Infantino expressed satisfaction with Zambia’s progress and emphasized FIFA’s readiness to deepen its support.

“We discussed how FIFA Forward funds can be used to strengthen football in beautiful Zambia,” he added. “I also thanked President Keith Mweemba for proactively engaging with the Football For Schools programme.”

The Football For Schools initiative—designed to blend football with education and life skills—has gained strong momentum in Zambia. Infantino praised FAZ’s leadership in implementing the program, describing it as a model for other nations.

He also extended FIFA’s best wishes to the Chipolopolo as they continue their journey in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, expressing confidence in Zambia’s growing football potential on the world stage.

On his part, FAZ President Keith Mweemba welcomed FIFA’s unwavering support and reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to aligning with international standards.

“We are encouraged by President Infantino’s continued support for Zambian football,” Mweemba said. “These engagements strengthen our resolve to build a solid and inclusive football foundation that serves every corner of our country.”

As Zambia works toward strengthening its football systems and unlocking new opportunities for young talent, FIFA’s renewed support comes as a major boost—marking a new chapter of progress and promise for the beautiful game in the heart of Africa.

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ)