ZANACO Football Club have completed the signing of attacking midfielder Francis Banda from Kabwe Warriors on a two-and-a-half-year contract, securing one of the MTN Super League‘s standout performers ahead of the 2026 Transitional League season.
The 27-year-old joins the Bankers after an outstanding campaign in which he played a pivotal role in helping Kabwe Warriors finish fourth in the league. Banda contributed seven goals and four assists, cementing his reputation as one of Zambia’s most creative attacking midfielders.
His impressive performances also earned him a call-up to the Zambia national team for the Mukuru Four Nations Tournament, where Chipolopolo finished runners-up.
Reward for an Outstanding Season
Banda arrives at Sunset Stadium on the back of arguably the best season of his professional career.
Operating primarily as an attacking midfielder, while also capable of playing on the left wing, he consistently troubled opposition defences with his vision, creativity and eye for goal.
His seven goals and four assists made him one of Kabwe Warriors’ most influential players as the club secured an impressive fourth-place finish.
Journey to the Top
Born on 16 January 1999 in Nyakatembo, Francis Banda began his football journey with Mutendere Giant in Kafue before joining the Chilanga Soccer School of Excellence Academy.
He spent six years developing his game at the academy before making his senior breakthrough with Chilanga Stars, where he announced himself by finishing as the club’s top scorer with 12 goals during the 2018 season.
A six-month loan spell at Kanfinsa Police Blue Eagles followed before he joined City of Lusaka, where he enjoyed a successful spell that included winning the 2021 Provincial Cup, finishing as the club’s leading assist provider and second-highest scorer.
Experience at the Highest Level
Banda’s performances earned him a move to ZESCO United in January 2022, where he gained valuable experience competing for one of Zambia’s biggest clubs.
In January 2023, he joined Kabwe Warriors on loan before making the move permanent after quickly becoming one of the club’s most important players.
His performances during the 2025/26 campaign further elevated his profile, attracting interest from several clubs before ZANACO secured his signature.
Perfect Fit for ZANACO
Known for his excellent vision, close control, dribbling ability and tactical intelligence, Banda is expected to add creativity and attacking quality to the Bankers’ midfield.
His versatility allows him to operate both centrally and in wide attacking areas, giving the technical bench additional tactical options ahead of the new season.
At 26, Banda is entering the prime years of his career and arrives at ZANACO with both experience and room for further growth.
Conclusion
The signing of Francis Banda represents a major statement of intent by ZANACO as they strengthen their squad for the Transitional League campaign.
After establishing himself as one of the league’s most exciting attacking midfielders at Kabwe Warriors, Banda will now be aiming to replicate that success in the yellow and green colours of the Bankers.
