FAZ Targets Commercial Transformation with Advisory Committee

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Keith Mweemba has challenged the newly constituted Commercial and Marketing Advisory Committee to spearhead the transformation of Zambian football into a financially sustainable and commercially competitive industry.

Speaking during the inaugural meeting of the committee in Lusaka on Thursday, Mweemba said football could no longer rely on traditional sources of funding if it was to compete at the highest level.

“It is my great pleasure to welcome you to this inaugural meeting of the FAZ Commercial and Marketing Advisory Committee,” Mweemba said.

He thanked the committee members for accepting the responsibility to serve Zambian football, saying their expertise would play a critical role in shaping the association’s commercial future.

“The composition of this committee is deliberate. We have brought together distinguished professionals from across key sectors including banking, telecommunications, mining, law, media, marketing, finance and policy. This diversity of expertise gives us confidence that we are well positioned to reposition Zambian football on a strong commercial footing,” he said.

Mweemba described football as a powerful national asset that extends beyond sport.

“Football in Zambia is more than just a sport. It is a powerful unifying force that brings our people together across regions, backgrounds and generations. It fosters national pride, strengthens social cohesion and provides hope and inspiration to millions,” he said.

The FAZ president also acknowledged government’s continued support to football, noting that strategic collaboration between government, the private sector and the football fraternity would be essential in unlocking the sport’s full economic potential.

“Together, we can build a football industry that not only produces success on the field but also contributes meaningfully to Zambia’s economic growth and national development,” he said.

Mweemba said the committee had been established to help transform football into “a viable economic sector—one that attracts investment, creates jobs, generates revenue and delivers long-term value.”

“We are committed to building a financially sustainable Association by expanding our revenue base, strengthening partnerships and unlocking new commercial opportunities,” he added.

He urged members to embrace innovation in identifying new revenue streams and strengthening sponsorship frameworks.

“As you begin your work, I encourage you to think boldly and act innovatively. Let us move beyond traditional approaches and build a model that future generations will be proud of,” Mweemba said.

“The nation is looking to this committee for leadership and results. I am confident that you have the capacity and commitment to deliver.”

The Commercial and Marketing Advisory Committee was appointed by the FAZ Executive Committee on May 5 as part of the association’s strategy to strengthen its financial position and diversify revenue streams.

The 17-member committee, established under Article 50 of the FAZ Constitution as an ad hoc body, comprises leading professionals from banking, telecommunications, mining, law, media, finance, marketing, policy and business, and will provide strategic guidance on sponsorship, investments and commercial development.