Zambia: The Lusaka based football community came together to bid farewell to former Chipolopolo star Justin Shonga. Shonga died on Sunday after a short illness at his home.
The Zambia Police Service Presided over a memorial service hosted at Arakan Barracks chapel presided over by Zambia Police chaplains. Several people from all walks of life turned up for the send-off service that started around 14:00 hours.
FAZ general secretary Reuben Kamanga led the tributes for the former Nkwazi, Orlando Pirates striker. The football fans of the nation took the opportunity to extend their condolences to the family of the deceased football legend.
“The name Justin Shonga invokes memories of a proven goal scorer. Justin was for a few years the star of our national team as he scored important goals for the Chipolopolo from 2017-2021,” Kamanga said.
“Many football enthusiasts remember how his goals helped our team qualify for the 2018 African Nations Championship in Morocco. His performance in the qualifiers was so good that he did not even stay long enough to participate in the tournament. He was signed on by Orlando Pirates before the tournament ahead of many other suitors.”
Zambia Police representative Adrian Kashala paid his tribute Shonga for his talent that brought him before the nation’s attention.
Chipolopolo assistant coach Moses Sichone, former national team gaffer Wedson Nyirenda, former goalkeeper trainer Stephen Mwansa, ex-team manager Desmond M’ngawa, Pastor Peter Makembo and FAZ Technical Director Lyson Zulu were among the attendees.
Several serving and former footballers were part of the service in the honor the former Chipolopolo Star. Shonga’s body has been transported to his home town, Chipata where he will be laid to rest on Thursday.
His remains were put aboard a Zambia Air Force flight.
The 27-year old Shonga was on the books of Saudi Arabian second tier side Nijran SC.
He previously had stints with Gagra in Georgia, Sekhukhune, Ismailia, Cape Town City and Tshakhuma.