A fresh wave of coaching expertise is set to elevate Zambian football, as the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) champions education as the cornerstone of the sport’s future.
The commitment was underscored by FAZ Acting Deputy General Secretary Iva Lengwe, who today officiated the closing ceremony of the FAZ E Licence Coaching Course at NASDEC.
Addressing 31 graduating coaches, Lengwe celebrated the group’s unwavering passion, discipline, and dedication—qualities he described as the essential fuel for football’s growth in Zambia.
The intensive course, held from January 26-30, 2026, provided a deep dive into modern football foundations.
Under the guidance of FIFA instructor Mr. Zunaid Mall, and supported by a skilled team of local instructors, the curriculum blended contemporary tactics, holistic player development, and the vital ethical duties of mentoring young athletes—including safeguarding and broader coaching responsibilities.
This graduating class, Lengwe affirmed, now carries the torch to inspire the next generation, turning their newly honed knowledge into positive change on pitches across the nation.
“Coach education remains one of the strongest pillars upon which successful football nations are built. Talented players alone are not enough. They require knowledgeable, competent, and well-prepared coaches who understand modern football, player development safeguarding, and the responsibility that comes with shaping young live.” Said Lengwe.
Lengwe reiterated FAZ’s belief that the future of Zambian football begins with sustained investment in structured coaching pathways, from grassroots to elite level.
He expressed confidence that the newly trained coaches will make a positive impact on football development across the country.
“This E Licence course is not the end of your journey; rather, it is the foundation. We encourage you to apply what you have learned with professionalism, integrity, and consistency in your clubs, schools, academies, and communities.”
“Remember, every training session you conduct has the potential to influence the future of Zambian football.”
Lengwe also announced that FAZ will next week conduct an elite goalkeeping course as part of its continued investment in specialised coach education.
He said the programme is aimed at enhancing high-level goalkeeping development in line with international standards and forms part of the association’s efforts to address critical areas of the game and raise the overall technical quality of Zambian football.
