KCM Signs Record K10.8 Million Sponsorship Deal with FAZ to Boost Women's Football

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The Football Association of Zambia has secured a landmark K10.8 million annual sponsorship from Konkola Copper Mines in a major boost for women's football in Zambia.

Under the agreement, K7.2 million will finance the newly established Zambia Football Association (ZFA) Cup, while K3.6 million has been allocated to the Zambia women's national football team for brand and image rights each year.

The sponsorship comes as the Copper Queens prepare for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and represents one of the biggest financial commitments to women's football in the country's history.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ministry of Sports Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe described the partnership as a transformative moment for the women's game.

"KCM has seen the immense opportunity and undeniable excellence within our women's game. Their sponsorship of the Copper Queens and the creation of a historic cup competition is a game changer," Chileshe said.

FAZ President Keith Mweemba said the agreement would unlock new opportunities for women's football, noting that the Copper Queens have consistently delivered success on the continental and global stage, including appearances at the FIFA Women's World Cup and the Olympic Games.

The newly introduced ZFA Cup will feature clubs from both the amateur and professional ranks across all 10 provinces, making it the first nationwide knockout competition for women's football in Zambia.

KCM Acting Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Mewett said the company is committing US$600,000 annually to support the growth of women's football, including the Copper Queens' preparations for WAFCON 2026 and the full funding of the inaugural KCM–FAZ Cup.

Copper Queens defender Margaret Belemu, accompanied by teammates Lushomo Mweemba and Evarine Katongo, welcomed the sponsorship and pledged that the team would repay the support with strong performances, including a push for the WAFCON title.

The agreement is widely viewed as a milestone for women's football in Zambia and could serve as a model for increased corporate investment in the women's game across the region.

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