Another Sport in Action Graduate Reaches the Top as Francis “Bubu” Mutalange Joins Nkana FC

At Sport in Action, every success story reminds us why we do what we do. Today, we proudly celebrate another milestone as one of our own, Francis “Bubu” Mutalange, completes a permanent move to Nkana Football Club from Atletico Lusaka FC.

The 22-year-old midfielder has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Kitwe giants, marking another exciting chapter in a football journey that first began on community playing fields through Sport in Action programmes.

For Bubu, this move is more than a transfer. It is the reward for years of dedication, discipline and resilience. For us, it is another powerful reminder that when young people are given the right opportunities, mentorship and support, they can achieve extraordinary things.

Watching Bubu grow from a young participant into a professional footballer is exactly the kind of transformation Sport in Action strives to make possible. His journey reflects our belief that sport is far more than a game. It is a pathway to opportunity, leadership and a brighter future.

Bubu now joins a growing list of Sport in Action graduates who continue to shine in Zambian and international football. Among them are Gift Siame of CD Leganés in Spain, Sharpy Chikondi Njobvu of Green Eagles FC, Lottie Mwale of FC MUZA, Charles Yande of Green Eagles FC, Kasonde Kabanda of Kafue Celtic, Fanwell “Ayoyo” Mapulanga of Green Buffaloes, Simon “Sanchez” Mwanza of Young Zanaco, Gilbert Tembo of Chirundu United and many others making their mark both on and off the pitch.

Sport in Action Executive Director Frankson Mushindu said Bubu’s achievement represents the impact of investing in young people through sport.

“Francis represents the values that we seek to instill in every young person who comes through our programmes. His journey demonstrates that with the right opportunities, mentorship and commitment, young people can achieve their dreams and become positive role models in their communities”

While many former Sport in Action participants have gone on to build successful football careers, many others have pursued professions beyond sport. This reflects our broader mission to use sport as a tool to develop confident, responsible and well-rounded young people equipped to succeed in every area of life.

As Bubu begins this exciting new chapter in the famous red colours of Kalampa, the entire Sport in Action family congratulates him on this well-deserved achievement. We wish him every success at Nkana FC and look forward to seeing him continue inspiring the next generation of young people participating in Sport in Action programmes across Zambia.

Bubu’s story is proof that talent, when nurtured with opportunity, guidance and determination, can take young people from community football to the biggest stages in the country. We are proud to have been part of his journey and cannot wait to see what comes next. Congratulations, Bubu. Once Sport in Action, always Sport in Action.