Former Chipolopolo Striker Tapson Kaseba Dies at 39

Zambia is mourning the death of former Chipolopolo striker Tapson Kaseba, who passed away on Wednesday evening at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH). He was 39.

Kaseba died following an illness after initially being admitted to Maina Soko Medical Centre before being transferred to UTH.

Kaseba represented Zambia at a national level and played in numerous clubs across the Zambian Premier League. His legacy started in Livingstone with Sunchster and Southern Reeds United before moving to Kansanshi Dynamos and Lime Hotspurs. He later spent five years with Green Eagles (2015–2020), where he captained the team and led them to continental competitions.

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Keith Mweemba praised Kaseba’s influence on the game.

“We are saddened by the death of Tapson Kaseba, whom we knew as a former national team player and many clubs in our league. Our thoughts are with his family. Football has been robbed of a star who left an indelible footprint on the game,” said Mweemba.

Outside football, Kaseba served as a Staff Sergeant in the Zambia National Service (ZNS). ZNS Commander Lt. Gen Maliti Solochi described him as a “symbol of dedication, resilience, and excellence,” adding that his legacy would continue to inspire both on and off the pitch.

Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Elvis Nkandu also extended condolences on behalf of government.

“The Government joins the nation in mourning the passing of former Chipolopolo striker, Tapson Kaseba. We stand with his loved ones and the wider football community during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Kaseba spent his final days surrounded by his family and colleagues from ZNS.