Seven players from Chavuma Town Council FC were killed in a bus accident in Zambia over the weekend, which has thrown the nation’s football community into mourning.
The fatal accident, which occurred on Saturday, led to the tragic demise of these players, who were reportedly on their way to a game in the north west of the country.
According to reports, there were some survivors as 12 people sustained injuries and five from the injured have been transported to Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, for treatment.
The Football Association Of Zambia (FAZ) were left shocked with the situation surrounding the unfortunate event.
“We are in touch with the football, civil and law enforcement authorities in the province to furnish us with full details,” a statement from Andrew Kamanga, the association’s president read.
The names of the deceased and those injured have yet to be disclosed.
However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe expressed his sympathy and sent his condolences to the deceased, while praying that the injured recover fully.
“I convey my personal and Caf’s deepest condolences,” Motsepe added in a statement.
“May God comfort and console the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased and the Football Association of Zambia.
“May the souls of the departed players rest in eternal peace.”
Prayers were trooping in from different corners as Artur de Almeidia e Silva, president of the council of Southern African Regional FAs, also expressed his sadness at the incident, saying the loss of young lives in such a manner was “truly heartbreaking”.
“Football is a sport that unites us, bringing joy and pride to communities across our region,” he said in a letter to FAZ.
The President also sent his condolences to the families of the deceased “In this tragic moment, we share in your grief and offer our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends who are mourning this immense loss.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are still receiving treatment for their injuries”
