National Sports

Zambian legendary commentator Liwewe dies

Gone at 78: Liwewe
Gone at 78: Liwewe

Revered Zambian soccer commentator Dennis Liwewe died yesterday in Lusaka.

His son Ponga, confirmed his death to The Post of Zambia, saying the soccer analyst died at Levy Mwanawasa Hospital in the morning.

“Yes, he has died. He died at Levy Mwanawasa Hospital about an hour ago,” Ponga was quoted as saying.

Liwewe, 78, known as ‘the voice of Zambian football’, basked in the glory as one of the best football commentators on the continent in the 1970s to 80s and thrilled soccer fans with his live commentries both within Zambia and beyond.

Flames legend and assistant coach Jack Chamangwana described Liwewe as a complete football commentator.

“He was the one who gave me the nickname ‘Africa’ in the 1970s, insinuating that I was the best defender in Africa at that time.

“He loved his job. He did thorough research on players ahead of matches. He was also a very cheerful person who would mix freely with anyone. We will miss him,” said Chamangwana.

In 1977, Liwewe was awarded the Order of Distinguished Service by first Zambian republican president Kenneth Kaunda, popularly known as KK, in recognition for his contribution to the development of soccer.

According to Times of Zambia, when BBC wanted to broadcast a match live between Zambia and Zaire (now Congo DR), it recognised his invaluable talent in soccer commentary and recruited him as one of its correspondents.

“Undoubtedly, I enjoyed this because it gave me international recognition in the world of sport,” Liwewe was quoted as saying in one interview.

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