FIFA women seminar opens in Lusaka
The first ever Women Football FIFA Comm-Unity seminar opened in Lusaka Monday with Faz and Government outlining new policy proposals as well as challenging stakeholders to ensure that the women's game overcomes existing challenges and becomes a viable source of livelihood for ladies.
Youth and Sports deputy minister Stephen Masumba declared the seminar at the Cresta Golfview hotel officially open with a reminder to delegates that government would keenly follow the three-day proceedings and plans which will be formulated at the end of the programme.
"I am positive that your contributions to the planning process will change the face of women football in the country," Masumba said adding: "Make a plan to stand the test of time and help the girl child and women earn a living from playing football. I want to receive a copy of the development plan to be formulated from here because government is keen on development across all sectors."
Masumba said the seminar should take time to deal with some cultural attitudes and trends towards women football which had derailed the development of the sport in the country.
"Poor cultural attitudes and trends have led to fewer girls and women playing football. Coupled with that, companies have not come forward to fully sponsor women football. Let's re-strategize and sell well worked out proposals to companies to sponsor women football," Masumba said.
FAZ president Kalusha Bwalya commended government for its continued support to FAZ.
Kalusha, who unveiled a seven point strategic direction for women football development appealed to the state to consider rendering financial support to the women national team as the national soccer governing body embarked on transforming the game nationwide.
The seminar closes on Thursday. It is expected to come up with a new strategy to enhance women football development and will cover areas such as sponsorship, marketing, communications and grassroots, youth development and national league development.
