The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has called on the football fraternity and the nation at large to give former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape a befitting send-off in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development of women’s football in Zambia.
Speaking in an interview with the media in Lusaka today, FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya says the late Mwape’s legacy will be remembered through the historic achievements he recorded with the Copper Queens, including guiding the team to its first ever FIFA Women’s World Cup and two Olympic Games appearances.
“He deserves a befitting sendoff due to his commitment and contribution to Zambian football and the inspiration he gave to generations of players,” Chakatazya said.
He appealed to football lovers to support the bereaved family in any way possible, in order to ensure the late coach is accorded a dignified burial.
Chakatazya said FAZ will communicate the funeral programme once it is finalised, to allow government officials, football stakeholders and members of the public to attend the funeral.
The FAZ General Secretary further urged the Copper Queens, who are preparing for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, to honour their former coach by winning the continental title or securing a qualification to the next FIFA Women’s World Cup.
He described Coach Mwape as one of Zambia’s finest football coaches whose contribution to the growth of women’s football will remain part of the country’s sporting history.
And football enthusiast Puncherello Chama has described the late former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape as one of the architects of Zambia’s rise in women’s football, saying his achievements should be permanently honoured.
“He changed the face of women’s football in Zambia and his legacy deserves to live on for generations,” Chama said.
Chama said the late coach transformed the Copper Queens into a competitive force on the African and global stage, after taking over the national team.
He said Mwape’s contribution elevated Zambia’s profile in women’s football and earned the country international recognition.
Bruce Mwape, the legendary former head coach of the Zambia women’s national football team, the Copper Queens, passed away on July 9, 2026, at the age of 67 after a short illness.
