Forest Rangers have officially announced the appointment of Boyd Mulwanda as their new head coach, replacing Mathews Ndhlovu, who departs alongside assistant coach Dennis Makinka after a short six-month tenure. The club confirmed the appointment in a statement, emphasizing Mulwanda’s experience and shared vision to guide the Ndola-based side back to the MTN Super League.
Mulwanda Takes Charge at Dola Hill
As previously reported by the Bola Yapa Zed Crew, Mulwanda joins Fole Malembe after parting ways with Nchanga Rangers, where he served as assistant coach under George “Chicken” Lwandamina. His new assistant will be Kennedy Kashobondo, who replaces Makinka. The rest of the technical bench remains unchanged.
“Forest Rangers Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Boyd Mulwanda as the new Head Coach. Coach Mulwanda brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision that aligns with the club’s ambition to return to the Zambian Premier League,” read part of the club’s statement.
The club also took time to thank Ndhlovu and Makinka for their service, wishing them well in their future endeavors. Their departure comes just eight games into the 2025/26 National League season.
A Return to Familiar Territory
Mulwanda’s appointment marks a homecoming of sorts. The former Kabwe Warriors player previously guided Forest Rangers to the Coca-Cola Cup championship in 2007, and fans will be hoping for a similar revival this term. His return comes at a crucial juncture, with the team sitting 5th in the National League table with 16 points, just three points behind log leaders Trident FC.
Having been relegated from the MTN Super League last season, Forest Rangers are determined to bounce back immediately. Mulwanda’s arrival is seen as a strategic move to restore stability, consistency, and confidence within the squad.
“This is a big opportunity for me and for the club. We have a strong team and the ambition is clear — we want to return to the Super League,” Mulwanda is quoted as saying by sources close to the team.
Conclusion
The appointment of Boyd Mulwanda signals a fresh chapter for Forest Rangers as they aim to reclaim their place among Zambia’s top-flight clubs. With the experience of Kashobondo and a talented playing unit, the Ndola side will be eager to build momentum and push for promotion in what promises to be a fiercely contested National League campaign.
