2026 ABSA Cup champions Red Arrows Football Club have completed the signing of experienced defender Owen Mwamba from Mufulira Wanderers ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The commanding centre-back becomes one of the Airmen’s key additions as head coach Chisi Mbewe continues to strengthen his squad for another domestic campaign and Zambia’s return to the CAF Confederation Cup.
For Red Arrows, the signing brings proven leadership, defensive stability and top-flight experience. For Mufulira Wanderers, however, it marks the end of an unforgettable era.
The End of a 15-Year Journey
Mwamba leaves Mufulira Wanderers after spending an incredible 15 years at the club.
A product of the Wanderers Academy, he joined the club as a young boy before rising through the ranks to become first-team captain and one of the most respected figures in the club’s modern history.
Throughout his career at Shinde Stadium, Mwamba embodied the values of commitment, discipline and loyalty, establishing himself as a leader both on and off the pitch.
Few players enjoy the privilege of serving a single club for such a long period, making his departure one of the most significant in recent years for the nine-time Zambian champions.
A Captain Who Delivered Success
Mwamba’s final season at Wanderers was another memorable one.
He captained the Maite to IRH Challenge Cup glory and helped guide the club to the ABSA Cup semi-finals, once again demonstrating the leadership qualities that made him one of the first names on the team sheet.
Although primarily a central defender, Mwamba also proved to be a threat in the opposition penalty area, scoring 16 goals during his Wanderers career.
His contributions went far beyond statistics, earning admiration from teammates, coaches and supporters through his professionalism and unwavering commitment to the club.
An Emotional Goodbye
Speaking after confirming his departure, Mwamba reflected on the club that shaped both his football career and personal life.
“Wanderers is home. I came here as a boy from the academy and I’m leaving as a man who gave everything for this badge.”
“To the executive, technical bench, my teammates and, most importantly, our passionate supporters, thank you for the memorable 15 years of love and belief.”
“Leaving Shinde is not easy, but I go with my head held high, knowing I served this great club with all my heart. Once MAITE, always MAITE.”
Wanderers Pay Tribute
Mufulira Wanderers Chief Executive Officer Evans Chiyanta praised Mwamba’s outstanding contribution to the club.
“Owen is Wanderers through and through. Fifteen years of dedication, leadership and sacrifice cannot be measured in statistics alone.”
“He is a true son of Mufulira. On behalf of the entire Wanderers family, we thank Owen for his service and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”
Chiyanta added that the doors of Shinde Stadium would always remain open for the long-serving captain.
A New Challenge at Nkoloma
Mwamba now begins a fresh chapter with Red Arrows, where he is expected to play an important role in the club’s ambitions both domestically and on the continental stage.
The experienced defender joins an Airmen side looking to build on last season’s ABSA Cup triumph while mounting another strong challenge in the MTN Super League and making an impact in the CAF Confederation Cup.
His leadership, aerial ability and composure in defence make him a valuable addition to Chisi Mbewe’s squad.
Conclusion
Owen Mwamba leaves Mufulira Wanderers as one of the club’s modern-day icons.
After 15 years of loyal service, memorable victories and inspirational leadership, he now embarks on a new journey with Red Arrows.
While he will wear different colours next season, his legacy at Shinde Stadium is secure, and he will forever be remembered as one of the finest captains to represent the famous Maite.
