Rainford Kalaba: The Zambian midfield maestro who escaped a fatal road accident

Zambia's and TP Mazembe legend Rainford Kalaba.

Rainford Kalaba: The Zambian midfield maestro who escaped a fatal road accident

Izuchukwu Akawor 05:51 - 07.05.2024

A look at the life of Zambia and TP Mazembe football legend Rainford Kalaba.

Rainford Kalaba is a Zambian professional footballer who has carved out a successful career as a midfielder but came close to an early grave when he was involved in a tragic road accident.

Known for his technical ability, vision, and creativity on the ball, Kalaba became a key player for both his national team and the clubs he has represented.

Early Career

Rainford Kalaba was born in Kitwe, Zambia in 1986. He began his professional career with Zambian club Afrisports Kitwe in 2005, where he quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in the country.

Having kicked off his journey at Kitwe United, where he penned a contract in 2005, his impressive performances earned him a move to France.

Ogenyi Eddy Onazi from Nigeria (L) and Rainford Kalaba from Zambia during the 2013 Orange African Cup of Nations.
Ogenyi Eddy Onazi from Nigeria (L) and Rainford Kalaba from Zambia during the 2013 Orange African Cup of Nations. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Kalaba failed to impress at Nice B and returned to Zambia where he starred for giants Zesco United, leading to Cup and Super League titles before he moved back to Europe to play for Portuguese side Braga.

Once again, the trip to Europe was underwhelming for Kalaba and he returned to the continent and joined Linafoot club TP Mazembe in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2010.

Ivory Coast's Jean-Jaques Gosso is tackled by Zambia s Rainford Kalaba during the 2012 African Cup of Nations.
Ivory Coast's Jean-Jaques Gosso is tackled by Zambia s Rainford Kalaba during the 2012 African Cup of Nations. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Rise to Prominence At TP Mazembe

Kalaba continued to develop and showcase his skills at TP, playing a crucial role in the club's success, helping them win multiple league titles and the prestigious CAF Champions League in 2010 and 2015.

Kalaba's performances in continental competitions brought him to the attention of football fans across Africa and beyond.

Rainford Kalaba of TP Mazembe runs with the ball during the 2015 FIFA Club World Cup match
Rainford Kalaba of TP Mazembe runs with the ball during the 2015 FIFA Club World Cup match

The talented Zambian ended his time with Mazembe with a credible 78 goals after making 280 appearances for the club.

International Career

Kalaba made his debut for the Zambian national team in 2005 in a dominant victory against Eswtini and quickly established himself as a key player for the national side known as Chipolopolo.

He played a decisive role in Zambia's historic triumph at the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, where they defeated Ivory Coast in the final to claim their first-ever continental title despite missing his kick in the shootout.

Rainford Kalaba in action for Zambia. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Kalaba's leadership, creativity, and ability to control the tempo of the game have made him an indispensable part of the Zambian national team. He played 103 matches for the Chipolopolo and scored 15 goals before he hung his playing boots in June 2023.

Current Status

On the 13th of April, 2024, the 37-year-old was involved in a tragic accident which has left him hospitalised and in critical condition.

Kalaba, on board his Mercedes Benz car, was involved in an accident with a man who was driving his Howo truck per Flashscore.

Kalaba's damaged Mercedes Benz car. (Photo Credit: The Investigator/X)

The Zambian and TP Mazembe legend was rushed to a University Teaching Hospital, UTH, where it was confirmed that his situation remained critical. But he has also been discharged and is recuperating at home.

Kalaba’s Legacy

Rainford Kalaba is widely regarded as one of the greatest Zambian footballers of his generation.

Rainford Kalaba is a Zambian and TP Mazembe legend.
Rainford Kalaba is a Zambian and TP Mazembe legend.

His technical prowess, vision, and ability to control the tempo of a game have made him a fan favourite and a respected figure in African football.

Kalaba’s Family

The Zambian legend is married to Saviour Musonda, though there is little to no more information about their union.

Rainford Kalaba and his wife, Saviour.
Rainford Kalaba and his wife, Saviour. (Photo Credit: Facebook)

Kalaba and Musonda have a child together, a son, according to several pictures posted on the social media platform Instagram.

Net Worth

In terms of net worth, Rainford Kalaba is reportedly worth three million dollars and is one of Zambia’s highest-ever paid players.

According to Transfer Market, Kalaba’s market value peaked at 600,000 dollars in 2012 before dropping to 400,000 in 2020 and then when he retired.

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