Fridah Mukoma Joins Kansas City Current, Becomes Fifth Zambian in NWSL

Zambian Sensation Secures Move to NWSL Giants

Zambian women’s football continues to make headlines as Fridah Mukoma has officially signed with Kansas City Current, becoming the fifth Zambian player to secure a contract in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The 18-year-old forward joins an elite group of Zambian stars already making waves in the U.S., including Barbra Banda, Grace Chanda, Prisca Chilufya (all Orlando Pride), and Racheal Kundananji (Bay FC).

Mukoma has signed a four-year contract through 2028, making her one of Zambia’s brightest young prospects to secure a long-term deal with a top-tier international club. Her move from ZESCO Ndola Girls, the current leaders of the Zambian Women’s Super League, further cements Zambia’s growing reputation as a hotbed for young, talented female footballers.

Mukoma’s Move and Loan to China

While Kansas City Current have secured Mukoma’s services, they have opted to loan her out to Beijing Jingtan FC for the 2025 season, allowing her to gain valuable playing time and experience in China’s top women’s league.

“The Current have also signed Zambian forward Fridah Mukoma through 2028 via a transfer with ZESCO Ndola Girls that included an undisclosed transfer fee. Mukoma has been subsequently loaned to Beijing Jingtan FC through the 2025 season,” the club confirmed in an official statement.

This strategic loan move will allow Mukoma to continue her development before she officially joins the Kansas City squad in 2026.

A Breakout Year for Mukoma

Mukoma’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of spectacular. In 2024, she delivered an outstanding season for ZESCO Ndola Girls, where she:

✅ Scored 5 goals and registered 13 assists in 30 appearances
✅ Won the Young Player of the Year Award
✅ Played a key role in helping ZESCO Ndola Girls maintain their dominance in the Zambian Women’s Super League

Her exceptional club performances earned her a call-up to the Zambia Women’s National Team, where she made an instant impact. At the 2024 COSAFA Women’s Championship, Mukoma was in sensational form, finishing as the tournament’s joint-top scorer with four goals, alongside her national teammate Ochumba Lubandji.

A Dream Start in China

Since joining Beijing Jingtan FC on loan, Mukoma has wasted no time making an impression. She announced herself in Chinese football with an explosive debut, scoring two goals in a 3-0 victory for Beijing Oriental.

This early success is a sign of Mukoma’s adaptability and goal-scoring prowess, and she will be eager to continue her fine form throughout the 2025 season in China before returning to Kansas City.

A New Era for Zambian Women’s Football

Mukoma’s move marks another major milestone for Zambian women’s football. With the likes of Barbra Banda, Grace Chanda, Racheal Kundananji, and Prisca Chilufya already making a name for themselves abroad, Zambia now has a strong presence in the NWSL, one of the world’s most competitive women’s leagues.

This increasing representation at the highest level is not only a testament to Zambia’s talent pool but also a positive sign for the future of the Copper Queens on the international stage.