The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) is set to strengthen its commercial portfolio after reaching a new partnership agreement with Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), in a deal expected to benefit both the Copper Queens and domestic football.
The agreement, which is expected to be officially signed today, will see KCM become the sponsor of the Copper Queens’ training and travelling kits ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The partnership also includes sponsorship of a brand-new domestic cup competition, further underlining FAZ’s commitment to growing Zambian football under the leadership of president Keith Mweemba.
Major Boost for the Copper Queens
The sponsorship comes at an important time for the Copper Queens, who are currently intensifying preparations for WAFCON 2026.
With Zambia aiming to challenge for the continental title and secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the support from KCM is expected to enhance the team’s preparations as they head into one of the biggest tournaments on the African football calendar.
The Copper Queens will shortly travel to Algeria for a pre-WAFCON training camp before heading to Morocco for the competition.
New Domestic Cup Competition
Beyond supporting the women’s national team, the partnership will also introduce a new FAZ cup competition.
While full details of the tournament are yet to be announced, the initiative is expected to create additional competitive opportunities for clubs and further strengthen Zambia’s domestic football calendar.
The competition will also represent another investment in the growth of local football through corporate support.
Growing Corporate Support
The agreement highlights the increasing role of corporate partners in supporting the development of Zambian football.
KCM has previously invested in football through its support of clubs and community initiatives, and the latest partnership extends that commitment to the national team and broader football development.
For FAZ, securing another major sponsor represents an important step as the association continues to strengthen its financial base and expand investment across different areas of the game.
Conclusion
The partnership between FAZ and KCM represents positive news for Zambian football.
From supporting the Copper Queens on their WAFCON journey to launching a new domestic cup competition, the agreement demonstrates the growing importance of collaboration between football administrators and the corporate sector in driving the game forward.
