Natasha Witika: Zambia’s Midfield Star Thriving in Nigeria’s NWFL Premiership
A Journey of Hard Work and Dedication
Zambian midfielder Natasha Witika has established herself as one of the most promising female footballers in Africa, currently making an impact in the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) Premiership with Delta Queens FC. Her journey has been one of determination, skill, and steady progress, making her a role model for aspiring Zambian footballers.
Witika’s football career started at Chiparamba Breakthrough Academy, where she was nurtured under the guidance of Coach Edson Siaulutaba and Coach Saidi Leviticus, both well-respected figures in Zambian women’s football. She later joined ZESCO Ndola Girls, a club that played a crucial role in her development before she took her talents beyond Zambia’s borders.
A Trailblazer in Tanzanian Football
In 2020, Witika became the first Zambian female footballer to play in Tanzania, signing for Tiger Queens in Arusha. Her first season saw her excel as the club’s top goalscorer with 10 goals in 2021, earning a reputation as a prolific midfielder. Her performances were instrumental in Tiger Queens’ promotion from the Tanzanian Women’s First Division League (WFDL) to the Serengeti Lite Premier League, Tanzania’s top-tier women’s football competition.
Due to her impressive displays and her signature dreadlocks, she earned the nickname “Rasta Girl”, a testament to both her style and her commanding presence on the pitch.
Success in Nigeria’s NWFL Premiership
In 2022, Witika took another step in her career, moving to Nigeria to join Bayelsa Queens, a club based in Yenagoa. She quickly became an important figure for the team, playing a significant role in midfield and featuring in numerous games. That same year, she was joined by another Zambian, Mwaka Mupeta, from Indeni Roses, making history as the first two Zambian women to play in Nigeria’s league.
With Bayelsa Queens, Witika participated in the 2022 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Champions League in Ivory Coast, representing Nigeria on the continental stage. Her experience in such high-level competitions further solidified her reputation as one of Zambia’s top female footballers.
Following the expiry of her contract in 2024, she made another big move—this time to Delta Queens FC, the defending champions of the NWFL Premiership. At Delta Queens, she has continued to thrive, demonstrating her versatility and leadership in midfield.
An Inspiration for Zambian Football
Witika’s journey from Zambia to Tanzania and now Nigeria is a reflection of the growing opportunities for Zambian female footballers on the international stage. As she continues to make an impact in Nigeria, she serves as an inspiration for young girls back home who dream of pursuing professional football.
With her technical ability, experience, and leadership qualities, Witika is expected to be a key figure for Delta Queens FC and could potentially play a major role for the Zambia Women’s National Team in future competitions.
