Former Zambia National football striker Justin Shonga has died at Sikanze Police Hospital after a short illness.

The Chipolopolo star, has died yesterday on Sunday 30 June 2024.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has described the death of Shonga as a heavy blow to Zambia Football.

FAZ president Andrew Kamanga says Shonga’s death is more devastating given that he was still young.

“On behalf of my executive committee and the entire football family, I wish to convey my heartfelt sympathies to the Shonga family over the death of Justin. Everyone in Zambian football knows what Shonga did for the game and we will celebrate his contribution as we mourn him,” says Kamanga.

“He was such an important member of the Chipolopolo from 2018-2021 where he scored many important goals several times. He was a great ambassador of our game for the many clubs he played for outside the country.” Kamanga continues.

The 27-year old Shonga was on the books of Saudi second tier side Najran SC with whom he signed for in January 2024.