Absa Raises Cup Prize Money to Seven Million Kwacha

Absa Bank Zambia has raised the total prize money for the 2026 Absa Cup to seven million Kwacha, giving a major boost to the country's premier knockout football competition.

Managing Director Mizinga Melu unveiled the enhanced package at the launch and draw of the 19th edition, held at Absa House in Lusaka. The winners will receive 1.1 million Kwacha, with runners-up taking home 450,000 Kwacha. Teams will also earn 25,000 Kwacha per match won, while Man of the Match awards will carry 5,000 Kwacha from the group stage to the Round of 16, rising to 15,000 Kwacha from the quarter-finals onwards.

Youth, Sport and Arts Minister Elvis Nkandu praised Absa's increased investment, saying the seven million Kwacha sponsorship reflects strong private sector confidence in the growth of Zambian football. He highlighted the tournament's role in nurturing talent, uniting communities and raising the profile of the sport nationwide. Nkandu also welcomed the introduction of travel grants for teams covering long distances, describing the move as an important step towards ensuring equal participation from all provinces.

FAZ President Keith Mweemba called the Absa Cup a vital pillar in the development of the game, noting that it remains Zambia's only national cup tournament and a key pathway for identifying talent for the national teams.

Preliminary matches are scheduled for 21 and 22 March and will be broadcast on SuperSport.