Kitwe – Nkana Football Club have placed head coach Mwenya Chipepo and his first assistant Christopher Katongo on administrative leave following a string of disappointing results in the MTN Super League.
The decision comes after Kalampa suffered three consecutive defeats, a run that has left the 13-time league champions struggling in 12th position on the log with 25 points from 22 matches.
In a statement issued by the club, Nkana described the move as procedural.
“Head Coach Mwenya Chipepo and First Assistant Coach Christopher Katongo have been placed on administrative leave with full pay and benefits, pending the conclusion of internal processes,” the club announced.
“These measures are procedural in nature and are intended to allow the club to address internal matters without disruption.”
Tana Takes Over on Interim Basis
With Chipepo and Katongo stepping aside, Nkana have moved swiftly to restructure the technical bench.
Chipolopolo legend Elijah Tana has been appointed Interim Head Coach. He will be assisted by Josephat Nkhoma as First Assistant Coach and Donashano Malama as Second Assistant Coach.
Mike Poto will retain his position as Goalkeeper Coach.
The reshuffle also extends to the club’s developmental structures. Young Nkana Head Coach Simon Bwalya will assume an additional role as Senior Team Physical Trainer, while Kelvin Chabala takes charge of Young Nkana.
In the women’s setup, Laston Kangwa remains Nkana Girls Head Coach, assisted by Esther Mulenga.
Management Explains Decision
Nkana Chief Executive Officer Mwansa Kapyanga said the changes were deemed necessary to safeguard the club’s competitiveness.
“Management believes the changes are necessary at this time and are in the best interests of the club to ensure it remains competitive. The technical bench has been assured of full support,” Kapyanga said.
Nkana, one of Zambia’s most decorated clubs, now face the challenge of arresting their slide and climbing away from the lower half of the table as the season enters a crucial phase.
The club has indicated that further updates will be communicated in due course as internal processes continue.
