The FQM Trident Interschools Independence Tournament returns on Friday, 18 September, with 37 schools from across Kalumbila District set to compete for honours under the theme “A Kick for Safety”.
The tournament, which brings together primary and secondary schools, gets underway at Kankonzhi with three opening-day fixtures as teams begin their journey towards the finals on 17 October.
Musangezhi will face Kashikuwe in the opening match at 09h00, before Wamafwaha take on Kanana. Chovwe will then meet Kamilenda in the final fixture of the day.
The competition will continue on Saturday, 19 September, with three matches at Jiwundu. Kankonzhi will face Mukilawatambo, Musele will take on Mbole, while Kalumbila North will meet Kambangala.
Three further matches are scheduled for Sunday, 20 September, at Musele, where Kambishi will play Kachiwezhi, Malombo will face Kanzala and Musanda will take on Chitungu.
The 2026 edition has seen an increase in participation, with 37 schools taking part compared to 34 schools in last year's tournament, further expanding the platform for young players in Kalumbila to develop their football abilities.
Chitungu Primary will return as defending champions in the primary school category, having claimed top honours in last year's competition.
In the secondary school category, Chovwe Secondary will also enter the tournament as defending champions after defeating Musele 4–2 on penalties following a goalless draw in last year's final.
The tournament has become an important platform for schools and communities in Kalumbila to combine football with education while providing young players with an opportunity to compete in an organised environment.
