11/03/2025
FRANCIS HAFWITI: THE LEADER TO REVIVE ZAMBIAN FOOTBALL
Francis Hafwiti is a seasoned football administrator, educator, and leader with over 35 years of hands-on experience in Zambian football. His journey through the ranks of the game—from grassroots to national administration—has shaped him into a leader ready to transform the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ). As a long-serving educator, Hafwiti possesses a deep understanding of youth psychology, making him the perfect candidate to spearhead the revival of school and grassroots football.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Football
Hafwiti’s commitment to football development is evident in his extensive administrative and coaching background. His experience includes:
FAZ Southern Province Chairperson (2021-2025) – Led football development in the region, ensuring structured leagues and talent nurturing.
FAZ Medical Sub-Committee Member (2021-2025) – Worked on player welfare and safety.
FAZ Provincial Coordinator (2019-2020) – Oversaw grassroots football programs across provinces.
Chairman of Mapanza Hammers FC (Division 3 to 2) and Livingstone Pride & Come All FC (2004-2019) – Managed and developed clubs, proving his capability in team administration.
Zambia Schools Sports Association (ZASSA) President (2001-2002) & General Secretary (1999-2001) – A key figure in school football, ensuring young players had a pathway to professional football.
Head Teacher & Coca-Cola Schools Cup Champion – Led St. Marks (2010), Linda Secondary (2016), and Choma Day Girls (2018) to national success, proving his ability to identify and nurture young talent.
Reviving the Glory Days of Schools Football
Hafwiti's background as an educator gives him an unmatched advantage in football leadership. His deep understanding of youth development will allow him to revamp secondary school football, which was once the heartbeat of Zambian football. Under his leadership, the famous "School Boy Internationals" that once produced legendary players will return, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the national team.
A Vision for Football Development
Hafwiti's plan for FAZ is built on five key pillars:
1. Honouring Legends & Reuniting the Football Family – He will recognize past heroes and integrate them into FAZ’s future.
2. Emotional Intelligence in Leadership – Ensuring inclusive decision-making where all stakeholders, from ExCo to fans, have a voice.
3. Respect & Meritocracy – Appointing qualified individuals to CAF, COSAFA, and FIFA positions, and ending patronage in FAZ committees.
4. Football Development & Player Welfare – Strengthening youth structures, introducing financial literacy for players and administrators, and implementing life insurance policies for active players.
5. Public Relations & Transparency – Establishing a dedicated PR team to foster corporate sponsorship, government relations, and public confidence in FAZ.
A True Football Reformer
Francis Hafwiti is not the loudest among the FAZ presidential candidates, but his impact in Zambian football speaks volumes. His lifetime of dedication to the game, combined with his experience as a teacher and administrator, makes him the best candidate to rebuild and transform FAZ. With Hafwiti at the helm, Zambia can reclaim its footballing glory, and the next generation of stars will rise from the grassroots once again.
Vote Francis Hafwiti for FAZ President – A Leader for Football’s Future!
