Kamanga Charms Africa Ahead of FIFA Seat Poll

07.03.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️

FAZ President Andrew Kamanga exuded confidence as he appeared on the widely watched Soccer Africa show on SuperSport ahead of the March 12 FIFA Council elections. Speaking about his candidacy, Kamanga explained that his extensive experience in football governance had positioned him as a strong contender for a seat on the prestigious FIFA Council.

He highlighted his work on the FIFA Governance, Audit, and Compliance Committee, as well as his role as deputy president of the CAF Finance Committee. According to him, these positions had provided him with valuable insights into football administration at the highest level.

Reflecting on Zambia’s football progress, Kamanga stated that his leadership had contributed to the success of national teams, with the Copper Queens qualifying for consecutive Olympic Games and making a historic FIFA World Cup appearance in 2023. He also pointed out that Chipolopolo had returned to prominence with back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations appearances, while the Under-17 Women’s National Team had represented Zambia at the 2024 FIFA Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.

Discussing his credentials, Kamanga remarked that he had earned recognition both on and off the pitch. He expressed his belief that his tenure in football governance had equipped him with the necessary skills to lead, even under challenging conditions. He further stated that financial management remained a major issue for African football and emphasized that his role on the CAF Finance Committee had given him a deeper understanding of the financial aspects of the sport.

He added that his eight-year experience in the FIFA Governance, Audit, and Compliance Committee had further strengthened his qualifications. However, he acknowledged that the final decision rested with fellow FA presidents, who would determine whether he could best serve their interests and contribute to the growth of African football.

Kamanga also spoke about FIFA’s Forward Program, acknowledging its success while stressing the need for innovation. He stated that African federations should work towards financial independence instead of relying on government support. According to him, if this issue could be addressed within the next four to five years, African football would see significant improvements.

He further revealed that Zambia had gained FIFA’s confidence in project management due to its compliance with financial guidelines. He announced that the country had secured $10 million for the construction of a new technical center in the upcoming cycle, beginning in 2026. He credited FIFA President Gianni Infantino for supporting the initiative, which aimed to create a comprehensive facility with accommodation, playing pitches, and administrative offices.

Kamanga explained that the ultimate goal was to establish a state-of-the-art football center, similar to Morocco’s, and to replicate it in all ten Zambian provinces through FAZ academies. He believed that this strategy would greatly enhance football development in the country.

Addressing the political landscape of CAF elections, Kamanga acknowledged the complexities involved but expressed confidence in his track record. He stated that he had completed his campaign within the COSAFA region and received endorsements from his colleagues. However, he admitted that in CAF elections, final decisions were often made in the last 24 hours before voting.

Looking ahead to 2025, Kamanga predicted a successful year for Zambian football, highlighting that the country had qualified for all major CAF tournaments. He mentioned that Zambia’s men’s senior team, women’s team, CHAN team, Under-20, and Under-17 squads had all secured spots in their respective competitions. He regarded this achievement as a testament to the progress of Zambian football.

As the election approached, Kamanga prepared to compete against nine other candidates for five FIFA Council seats allocated to male representatives. The final list of candidates included:

1. Andrew Kamanga (Zambia)

2. Hany Abou Rida (Egypt) – seeking re-election

3. Fouzi Lekjaa (Morocco) – seeking re-election

4. Yahia Ahmed (Mauritania)

5. Souleiman Waberi (Djibouti)

6. Amaju Pinnick (Nigeria) – seeking re-election

7. Idriss Diallo (Côte d’Ivoire)

8. Mathurin Chakus (Benin) – seeking re-election

9. Augustin Senghor (Senegal)

10. Djibrilla Hamidou Pele (Niger)

With the election drawing near, Kamanga remained optimistic that his experience and vision for African football would resonate with voters and strengthen his bid for a seat on the FIFA Council.