The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has reappointed veteran coach Chris Kaunda as head coach of the Zambia Under-17 men’s national team ahead of a crucial campaign that could culminate in qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
FAZ announced Kaunda’s appointment on Sunday, confirming that he will lead the Young Chipolopolo into the upcoming COSAFA Under-17 Championship, a tournament that serves as the qualifying pathway to the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations. Success at the continental finals would then secure a place at the 2027 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Dennis Makinka has been named assistant coach, with Dabwitso Nkhoma appointed second assistant coach. Former Chipolopolo striker Collins Mbesuma joins the technical bench as strikers’ coach, while Joshua Titima takes charge of the goalkeepers.
FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya said the appointments were designed to provide continuity and allow the team sufficient time to prepare for the challenges ahead.
“The appointment of the U17 technical bench is meant to give them room to start preparations for forthcoming assignments. We are confident that the experience that coach Kaunda brings to the table will re-energise the team,” Chakatazya said.
“Part of the task of this bench will be to ensure that the team qualifies to the AFCON, which is a gateway to the FIFA World Cup. Having missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, we are determined to qualify for the 2027 edition.”
Kaunda is no stranger to youth football success in Zambia. He guided the country’s Under-17 side to its maiden appearance at the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations in 2015, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s youth football history.
More recently, he was in charge of the Zambia Under-17 team during the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations 2026 COSAFA Qualifiers last September, further underlining FAZ’s confidence in his ability to develop young talent.
The remainder of the technical and support staff includes Clive Hichilensa as fitness coach, Nathan Sinkala as equipment manager, Matambo Lukhanda as team manager and Keith Mulamba as security officer.
The medical department will be overseen by Dr Emmanuel Kanswe and Isaac Sichali, while 2012 Africa Cup of Nations winner Rainford Kalaba has been appointed team ambassador to provide mentorship and inspiration for the next generation of Zambian footballers.
With an experienced technical team in place and qualification for both the Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA U-17 World Cup firmly in sight, Zambia’s Young Chipolopolo will now turn their attention to preparations for the COSAFA qualifiers.
