Tapson Kaseba
The Zambian football fraternity is mourning the death of Tapson Kaseba, the former Chipolopolo and Green Eagles star striker, who passed away at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka after a short illness. He was 29.
Born on 8 December 1992 in Lusaka, Kaseba built a remarkable football career that left a lasting mark on both the Zambian Super League and the national team. Fondly nicknamed “Hantobolo,” he was admired for his fighting spirit, consistency, and goal-scoring prowess.
Club Career Journey
Kaseba’s professional journey saw him feature for several prominent clubs, including Kansanshi Dynamos, Konkola Blades, Green Eagles, Buildcon, and NAPSA Stars.
His most outstanding season came in 2018 with Green Eagles when he netted 19 goals, finishing as the league’s second top scorer. That campaign cemented his reputation as one of Zambia’s most lethal forwards, inspiring Green Eagles to an impressive run in the league.
In 2020, he sealed a loan move from Green Eagles to NAPSA Stars, where he quickly established himself as a dependable striker. His signing, along with midfielder Daniel Adoko, was seen as a major boost for the Lusaka-based side as they prepared for their campaign.
National Team Contributions
Kaseba also enjoyed success on the international stage with the Zambia national football team. He will be best remembered for scoring the decisive goal against Botswana in the 2019 COSAFA Cup final in Durban, South Africa — a strike that handed Zambia the trophy and elevated him to national hero status.
That goal, which came at a crucial moment, reflected his ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it mattered most.
Tributes Pour In
The news of his death was confirmed by his uncle, Alex Willo Kabwala, who described the loss as “a painful blow to both family and country.”
Napsa Stars, one of his former clubs, expressed deep sorrow in a statement:
“Dear Tapson ‘Hantobolo’ Kaseba, Napsa Stars family is deeply saddened by your passing. You were more than just a player — a jovial teammate, a passionate footballer, and a true Zambian talent. Your legacy lives on through the memories we shared on and off the pitch. May your soul rest in peace.”
The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts also joined the nation in mourning, with Minister Elvis Nkandu paying tribute to the late striker:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tapson Kaseba. He was a well-known figure in Zambian football who made significant contributions at both club and national levels. His memory will continue to inspire the next generation of footballers.”
Principal public relations officer Nchimunya Ng’andu added that Kaseba’s contributions to the game, particularly his role in Zambia’s COSAFA Cup triumph, will forever be remembered.
A Legacy Remembered
Kaseba’s passing is a devastating loss to Zambian football. His achievements on the pitch — from his 19-goal haul in 2018 to his unforgettable winner in the 2019 COSAFA Cup — serve as a reminder of his talent, determination, and love for the game.
He leaves behind not only cherished memories for his family and teammates but also a legacy of excellence that will inspire aspiring strikers across the country.
Rest in peace, Tapson “Hantobolo” Kaseba.
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