Super League side FC Leopards have mutually agreed to part ways with veteran head coach Justin Chinama.
Others that have left the Kabwe-based club are assistant coach Donewell Yobe and goalkeeper trainer Lameck Nyangu.
The development was confirmed today in Lusaka by Zambia Correctional Service Sports and Culture Affairs Director Assistant Commissioner Divino Kifita.
Assistant Commissioner Kifita expressed gratitude to the trio for their services and commitment to the club.
“I would like to confirm that we have mutually agreed to separate with head coach Mr Justin Chinama, his assistant Mr Donewell Yobe, and goalkeeper trainer Mr Lameck Nyangu. We sincerely thank them for the contribution they made to the club,” said Assistant Commissioner Kifita.
Chinama joined FC Leopards last year and played a key role in the club’s successful promotion to the elite league.
His coaching résumé includes stints at Green Buffaloes and Mufulira Wanderers, among other teams.
Assistant Commissioner Kifita further announced that Chief Inspector Sunday Sichimata has been appointed interim head coach and will take charge of the team with immediate effect.
“A new and permanent coach will be announced soon, but in the interim we have asked Chief Inspector Sunday Sichimata to help the team,” Assistant Commissioner Kifita said.
He called on the Leopards faithful to rally behind Sichimata and continue supporting the team
Chief Inspector Sichimata, an employee of the Zambia Correctional Service, expressed confidence and humility on his appointment.
“I am humbled to have been given this rare opportunity to help the team. With teamwork, a lot can be achieved,” he said.
He also urged the players to give their all and fight for the badge.
Sichimata is a CAF C–licensed coach and former defender with a strong background in both playing and coaching.
During his playing career, he featured for Mufulira Blackpool, Nchanga Rangers, and FC Leopards, where he was known for his defensive discipline and commitment.
After retiring from active football, Sichimata transitioned into coaching, with a particular focus on youth development.
He has coached several youth teams, including Young Leopards, contributing significantly to player development and team structure.
In 2024, he was part of the technical bench that guided Young Leopards to victory in the Central Province Division One League, earning qualification for the National League playoffs and won promotion to the National Division One League.
FC Leopards are scheduled to face Green Buffaloes this Saturday at Edwin Imboela Stadium in Lusaka — a notable local fixture sometimes referred to as a “military derby”
Issued on behalf of FC Leopards
Alex Basopo Kazimiro Njovu
