The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has officially appointed experienced football administrator Charles Chakatazya as the new General Secretary with immediate effect.
According to a statement released by Football House, Chakatazya takes over from Machacha Shepande, who has left the association on mutual terms after accepting an international assignment.
FAZ also confirmed the appointment of Iva Lengwe as Deputy General Secretary following his period serving in an acting capacity.
The appointments were approved during a FAZ Executive Committee meeting held in Lusaka on May 25, 2026.
Keith Mweemba Welcomes New Appointments
FAZ President Keith Mweemba congratulated both Chakatazya and Lengwe on their appointments and expressed confidence in their ability to help strengthen football administration in Zambia.
“Today, the Executive Committee of the Football Association of Zambia met to deliberate on the appointment of the new General Secretary and the confirmation of Mr. Iva Lengwe as Deputy General Secretary following his acting role,” Mweemba said.
“On behalf of the Executive Committee, I wish to congratulate Mr. Charles Chakatazya and Mr. Iva Lengwe on their appointments.”
Mweemba described Chakatazya as one of the country’s most respected football administrators with vast experience both locally and internationally.
“Mr. Chakatazya is a well-known football administrator who has served the game diligently at both local and international level,” he added.
Strong Football Administration Background
Before joining FAZ, Chakatazya built a strong reputation in Zambian football administration after serving as Chief Executive Officer for several top Super League clubs.
His previous roles include leadership positions at:
- Nkana Football Club
- Kabwe Warriors
- NAPSA Stars
FAZ believes his experience managing some of Zambia’s biggest football institutions will greatly benefit Football House moving forward.
Academic and Professional Qualifications
Apart from his football administration experience, Chakatazya also possesses strong academic and professional credentials.
He is a member of the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) and holds:
- A Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- A Bachelor of Accounting and Finance from Mulungushi University
- A Diploma in Accounting from Evelyn Hone College
He also earned a FIFA Diploma in Club Management in Zurich, a Certificate in Senior Leadership Development from the University of Cape Town, and is currently pursuing the CAF Executive Football Management Programme.
Shepande Leaves Football House
Meanwhile, FAZ President Keith Mweemba thanked outgoing General Secretary Machacha Shepande for his contribution to Zambian football during his time at Football House.
“I wish to thank Mr. Machacha Shepande for the service he rendered to the game and wish him well in his new endeavours. Even as he leaves, he remains an important member of the football family,” Mweemba said.
The statement announcing the appointments was issued by FAZ Head of Media and Communications, Nkweto Tembwe.
Conclusion
The appointment of Charles Chakatazya signals a new administrative chapter at Football House as FAZ continues restructuring its leadership team.
With extensive experience in football administration, finance, and executive management, many within Zambian football will now be watching closely to see how Chakatazya helps shape the future direction of the game.
