adminJOHANNESBURG. — All involved with African football were mourning yesterday following the passing away of former Orlando Pirates and Moroka Swallows striker Dennis “Chesa Mpama” Lota. The former Zambian international passed away following a short illness. Zambian FA president Kalusha Bwalya described Lota as a “humble striker partner”.
“I have been deeply saddened by news of the passing on of Dennis Lota — my striker partner; a team player, a humble and dedicated colleague who served his country with distinction. It is with a heavy heart that I write on behalf of the Football Association of Zambia this message and prayer for a servant of Zambian football who has sadly passed away at a time when he was starting to scale the football coaching ladder.
“I have known Dennis for many years, on and off the field. His commitment and dedication to the game, hard work and admirable humility were hallmarks he carried during his playing days and even in retirement. Even in recent times when we got him into the FAZ coaching courses for his C, B and, just a few weeks ago, his Caf A license, Dennis came quietly, was always good company, humble and eager to learn.
“It’s a momentous loss, a shocking death, which words alone cannot fully express. My sincere condolences to his family, the Moroka Swallows Football Club. May his soul rest in peace,” said Bwalya.
Swallows, the club he served as a player and later assistant coach, were equally saddened.
“It is with shock and profound sadness that we inform the football community of the sudden passing of our assistant coach Dennis “Chesa Mpama” Lota last night from malaria.
“The former Zambian international striker served Swallows with loyalty and dedication both as a player and as assistant coach for many years.
“At the height of his career he was playing for Orlando Pirates where he won the PSL Top Goal Scorer Award.
“He was a talented young coach and commanded great respect in the dressing room. The club sends deepest condolences to Dennis’s family and friends. We are devastated by his untimely loss. He will be sorely missed in the Nest. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the club said in a statement. Pirates also sent out their message of condolence to the player’s family. — Supersport.com
Online Reporter