Zambian Footballer Kelvin Kampamba Safe in Libya, Evacuation Flight Set for Next Week

The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts has confirmed that Zambian international footballer Kelvin Mubanga Kampamba is safe and awaiting evacuation from Libya following the cancellation of his initial flight due to security-related disruptions.

Kampamba, who has been playing professional football in Libya, was scheduled to depart the country on Friday, 16th May 2025 via a flight through Istanbul. However, instability in parts of Libya has affected commercial airline operations, leading to the cancellation of his travel plans.

In an official statement released today, Thursday, the Ministry provided reassurance to the public:
“Mr. Kampamba was scheduled to leave Libya on Friday, 16th May 2025. However, his flight, originally booked via Istanbul, was cancelled due to the ongoing instability in parts of Libya, which has disrupted commercial flight operations,” said Mr. Nchimunya Bobby Ng’andu, Principal Public Relations Officer at the Ministry.

The Zambian Embassy in Egypt has since intervened and arranged an alternative route for the player’s safe return.

“In response, the Zambian Embassy in Egypt has secured an alternative flight for Mr. Kampamba from Misrata, scheduled for Monday, 19th May 2025,” the statement reads. “The Embassy is also exploring the possibility of an earlier departure, depending on prevailing security conditions.”

The Ministry further assured the public that Mr. Kampamba is in no immediate danger.
“The Ministry is in constant communication with the Embassy, which has assured Honourable Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, that Mr. Kampamba is safe and in a secure location.”

Authorities have also confirmed that, at this point, Kampamba is the only Zambian national reported to be affected by the current situation in Libya.
“The Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely,” Ng’andu added.

The footballer’s safety has been a matter of concern among fans and the sporting community, but officials say all necessary measures are being taken to ensure his safe return to Zambia in the coming days.