FAZ Appoints Chris Kaunda to Lead Zambia U-17 As Head Coach
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has unveiled the full technical bench for the Zambia Under-17 Men’s National Team, with experienced coach Chris Kaunda taking charge ahead of the upcoming COSAFA Under-17 Championship.
Kaunda will be assisted by Dennis Makinka as first assistant coach, while Dabwitso Nkhoma has been appointed second assistant coach. Former Chipolopolo striker Collins Mbesuma joins the setup as strikers’ coach, with Joshua Titima taking up the role of goalkeeper coach.
FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya said the appointments are aimed at giving the team sufficient time to prepare for the regional tournament, which serves as the qualification pathway to the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. Qualification for AFCON would also keep Zambia’s hopes alive of reaching the 2027 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Chakatazya expressed confidence that Kaunda’s wealth of coaching experience would help revitalize the junior national team and guide it toward achieving its qualification objectives after Zambia missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The technical bench is completed by Clive Hichilensa as fitness coach, Nathan Sinkala as equipment manager, Matambo Lukhanda as team manager and Keith Mulamba as security officer. The team’s medical department will be led by Dr. Emmanuel Kanswe and Isaac Sichali.
Adding further inspiration to the squad, Chipolopolo legend and 2012 AFCON winner Rainford Kalaba has been appointed as the team’s ambassador. His experience and leadership are expected to motivate the young players as they begin their journey toward continental and global qualification.
