People of the Union puts the spotlight on individuals across FIFPRO’s member associations who are dedicated to improving the wellbeing of professional footballers in their country.
Sandras Kumwenda, the President of the Footballers and Allied Workers Union of Zambia (FAWUZ), talks about his work with the union, his experiences in football and what motivates him daily.
FIFPRO: What is your current role and what is your background?
Sandras Kumwenda: I was a professional footballer who played in top-flight leagues across Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa, while also having a short stint in the Malaysian league in Asia. I also represented the Zambia national team in 1998. After my playing career, I became a football coach and administrator across youth academies in Zambia after which I was motivated to set up FAWUZ alongside other players.
What do you most enjoy about the work you do at the union?
The most motivating thing for me is helping players. I feel happy because the players recognise our work and understand that we are there for them.
What issue affecting player welfare are you most passionate about?
Professionalism in Zambian football leagues and across Africa at large is an issue I am passionate about. The gap between the highest paid players and the least paid players is huge. It is a disparity that hurts me personally as many quality players deserve to earn better than their current pay. We are fighting to implement standard contracts and a minimum wage across the board to fix this gap, one where professional players can earn enough to afford to live a decent life.
Can you share one of your proudest moments or achievements working as a union representative?
The Zambian union organised a programme for out-of-contract players where we bring them together in a camp to be trained by professional coaches. We also arranged friendly games for these players to keep them fit and engaged. Some of these players went on to sign for new clubs after.
What would you say is your favourite football memory to date?
My time playing in Zimbabwe with Dynamos Harare. I was the club's top scorer in the league, and I also featured in the CAF Champions League playing against the likes of Kolo and Yaya Toure. My performances during this period at Dynamos earned me a call-up to the Zambian national team, where I put on the national colours, which had been a dream for me and my family.
Who is your favourite player ever and why?
John Barnes in his days at Liverpool. The English league had very few black players and I just loved how he used to score. He was an inspiration to me as a young player and I would call myself John Barnes while playing football in the streets. I admired him and he inspired me to play football professionally.
What motivates you daily?
I have realised that I was born a leader and people expect me to have solutions or help them with their issues. This motivates me to continue to develop myself, so I can help people and provide the leadership they need.
Is there anyone in the sporting world that inspires you?
Desmond Maringwa, President of Footballers Union of Zimbabwe inspires me. He was influential in my decision to work for a union, and he is full of advice when I need them. He is like a brother to me.
