The Lundazi Annual Football Tournament: From a Small Donation to a Rural Community Tradition

What began as a small donation in 2022 has now grown into one of the most anticipated annual community events in the rural parts of Luzi District, Eastern Province, Zambia.

In 2022, Africa On The Ball was approached to make a donation after receiving a 40-foot container of goods from the United Kingdom, facilitated by a gentleman named Mr. Perry. Before this, Mr. Phirj had already been organizing a few local football tournaments as a way of giving back to his village. He believed that partnering with Africa On The Ball could help create a more organized and sustainable annual event — and he was right.

Over the years, the Lundazi Annual Football Tournament has rotated venues for its finals, with the first held at Kamunyunga Primary school the second at Chijemu Primary School, the third at Mwase primary school, and this year’s edition also hosted at Mwase Primary School following popular community request.

The tournament typically kicks off between April and May each year, bringing together teams from three different villages. These teams compete in group stages before advancing to the knockout rounds. This year saw tremendous growth, with 66 teams participating — 22 from each village — and reaching over 1,300 participants in total.

One of the highlights of this year’s tournament was the donation of school materials by Fidelity Stores, presented in the presence of the District Commissioner and local school teachers. This gesture underscored Africa On The Ball’s commitment to promoting education through the power of football.

For us, the tournament is more than just a game — it’s a platform where stars and leaders are born. It has provided an opportunity for young people to showcase their talents, for local dancers to perform during halftime shows, and for the entire community to come together in unity and celebration

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