By Satish Sekar © Satish Sekar (September 1^st 2021)

Versatile

With the late Dickson Makwaza and Dick Chama ahead of him in the pecking order at the centre of defence it seemed that the despite his immense talent Ackim Musenge would be played out of position. He had started as a gifted attacking midfielder before being converted to defence by the legendary Samuel ‘Zoom’ Ndhlovu. Musenge started in the Zambian team as a left back, earning a place in Zambia’s first AFCON Final appearance in 1974.

Makwaza’s retirement gave Musenge his chance in central defence. Before long his intelligence and ability in every defensive position shone. In 1977 Musenge was appointed captain of club and country.

Captain

He led Zambia to their second appearance in AFCON finals in 1978. A horrid group that involved hosts and winners Ghana, and also Nigeria was not helped by a hamstring injury to Africa’s Goal King, Godfrey Chitalu. Later that year Zambia reached the final of the (Council of East and Central African Football Associations) CECAFA Cup.

Chitalu hit a tournament record 11 goals, but Zambia lost 3-2 to Malawi in the final.

Musenge was an established presence in the KK11 as Zambia’s national team was known at the time.

Shameful

His career was wrecked by a disgraceful foul as the first half was drawing to a close in the seventh CECAFA Cup in Kenya. On November 6^th 1979 Tanzania drew 2-2 with Zambia, but the big story was the end of Ackim Musenge’s career. His leg was broken by the tackle. His successor as captain the ‘Minister of Midfield’ Jani Simulambo found the tackle disgraceful. Simulambo captained Zambia in that match. He says he is disappointed with such tackles and says the Tanzanians did not apologise to Musenge or visit him in hospital.

A further injury required surgery. Musenge never recovered and had to call time on his illustrious playing career in 1981. It was a very sad end to a fantastic career that was prevented from delivering its full potential.

He went into coaching, distinguishing himself with former club, Mighty Mufulira Wanderers, and especially over a decade in Botswana. His last coaching job was back in Zambia. Musenge has not worked in football for a decade – a great pity.

Musenge has forgotten more than most will ever know about defending.

After an incredibly long delay considering his great achievements as a player and coach, Musenge was finally made a life member of FAZ (the Football Association of Zambia).

Just Deserts

Football has few pure class gentlemen – Musenge is definitely one of them. Sadly, he lost his wife, Christine, earlier this year. An accident in Botswana left the great defender needing crutches. It was soon clear that he needed hip replacement surgery, but it was costly. Musenge never got the surgery that he needed.

On my last trip to Zambia, I discovered the importance of NHIMA, the national Health Insurance Management Authority, which runs the National Health Insurance Scheme. It provides free healthcare for anyone over 65. Mighty Mufulira Wanderers have helped to register former teammates and at least one, McLean Kabwe, was rapidly assessed.

On the day of my departure from Zambia, I met Ackim together with the (Zambian) Daily Mail’s Jack Mwewa. Ackim was registered for NHIMA.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3y81JYrDkII (Ackim Musenge appeals to Zambians who are eligible for NHIMA to register for it.)

Jack arranged to take Ackim for an assessment of his needs. Operations were recommended on his hips. Hopefully, Musenge will get the treatment he needs to enjoy a healthy remainder of his life – it is the least the classy Zambian defensive icon deserves.