Nkandu Hails K7m ABSA Cup Boost as FAZ Applauds 19-Year Partnership

Youth, Sport and Arts Minister Elvis Nkandu has commended ABSA Bank Zambia for increasing sponsorship of the 2026 ABSA Cup to K7 million, describing the move as a major boost to football development in the country.

Speaking at the launch and draw of the 19th edition of the ABSA Cup in Lusaka, Nkandu praised the bank’s long-standing commitment to the growth of the game.

“Additionally, join me in applauding ABSA for raising the sponsorship value to K7 million this year. Such a gesture speaks volumes about your confidence in Zambian football and your desire to see it flourish,” Nkandu said.

He noted that the increased prize allocations and travel grants for teams travelling long distances demonstrate a shared vision of ensuring equal opportunity across all provinces.

“The substantial prize allocations for champions and runners-up, as well as the rewards for outstanding individual performance, reinforce a culture of excellence that my ministry is committed to promoting,” he added.

Nkandu also urged participating teams to compete with discipline and integrity, noting that the tournament continues to unite communities under the theme “In the Stands We Stand As One.”

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Keith Mweemba described the ABSA Cup as a special competition that has played a key role in talent identification and national team development.

“By any standards, 19 years is a long time to sustain a sponsorship partnership, which puts ABSA Bank in a league of its own,” Mweemba said.

He added that the competition has become a launchpad for players aspiring to represent Zambia.

“It is common knowledge that the ABSA Cup has proved to be a launchpad for some players’ careers to the national team,” he said.

The preliminary matches are scheduled for March 21 and 22, with live broadcast coverage expected to widen national access to the tournament.