Football Fraternity Mourns Passing of Former U-20 Team Manager Daniel Jere

The Zambian football community is in mourning following the untimely passing of former Under-20 National Team Manager, Daniel Jere, who passed away on Monday, May 12, 2025, after a short illness. Tributes have been pouring in, highlighting his significant contributions to the development of young talent in the country.

Zambia National Team midfielder Emmanuel Banda, a key member of the history-making Under-20 squad that clinched the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations title and reached the quarterfinals of the 2017 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, expressed his deep sorrow in a heartfelt Facebook post.

“Saddened to hear about your passing on Manager,” Banda wrote. “You played an important role in Zambian football and in mine. From the under17 raising stars days till the national Under-20. Helped me navigate through hurdles I faced when I was young and knew not much in the football world.”

Banda further extended his condolences, saying, “My heartfelt condolences goes to the family in this difficult moment. Rest in Peace Managers. You Will be missed.”

Green Buffaloes Football Club, where Jere served as a dedicated Committee Member, also released a statement expressing their profound sadness.

“Green Buffaloes is deeply saddened to announce the untimely passing of its Committee Member Daniel Jere after a short illness this afternoon,” the club stated.

The club fondly remembered Jere’s unwavering passion for the team and his broader commitment to Zambian football.

“Daniel Jere, loved Green Buffaloes immensely and was a loyal servant of football in Zambia. He was Once the Team Manager For Zambia Under 20 and Nkana Football Club.”

Green Buffaloes conveyed their sympathies to the bereaved family, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Jere’s family, his friends, and all Green Nation. Mr Jere will forever live in the hearts and minds of all Green Buffaloes members.”

Update on Funeral Arrangements:

Green Buffaloes Football Club has since released the official burial program for the late Daniel Jere. The funeral service is scheduled to take place on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the Army Chapel in Lusaka.

The church service will be held from 8:00hrs to 12:00hrs at the Army Chapel, followed by the burial at Mutumbi Cemetery at 14:00hrs.