The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has appointed Chipolopolo legend Rainford Kalaba as Team Ambassador for the Zambia Under-17 men’s national team, as the association strengthens its technical and support structure ahead of the upcoming COSAFA Under-17 Championship.
Kalaba’s appointment comes alongside the unveiling of a new technical bench led by experienced coach Chris Kaunda, who returns as head coach of the Young Chipolopolo.
Kalaba to Inspire the Next Generation
One of Zambia’s most decorated footballers, Kalaba will play a mentorship role, using his wealth of experience to guide and inspire the country’s brightest young talents.
The former midfielder was a key member of the historic Chipolopolo side that won the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, Zambia’s greatest achievement in international football.
His appointment reflects FAZ’s desire to instill a winning mentality and professionalism among the next generation of national team players.
Experienced Technical Bench Unveiled
Chris Kaunda will lead the Zambia Under-17 team, with Dennis Makinka serving as assistant coach.
The rest of the technical bench includes Dabwitso Nkhoma as second assistant coach, former Chipolopolo striker Collins Mbesuma as strikers’ coach and ex-national team goalkeeper Joshua Titima as goalkeepers’ coach.
The support staff also features Clive Hichilensa (fitness coach), Nathan Sinkala (equipment manager), Matambo Lukhanda (team manager) and Keith Mulamba (security officer).
The medical department will be overseen by Dr Emmanuel Kanswe and Isaac Sichali.
Mission: AFCON and World Cup Qualification
FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya said the appointments were made early to allow the technical team enough time to prepare for the upcoming assignments.
“The appointment of the U17 technical bench is meant to give them room to start preparations for forthcoming assignments. We are confident that the experience that coach Kaunda brings to the table will re-energise the team,” Chakatazya said.
He added that qualification for the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations remains the immediate objective, with the continental tournament serving as the pathway to the 2027 FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
“Part of the task of this bench will be to ensure that the team qualifies to the AFCON, which is a gateway to the FIFA World Cup. Having missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, we are determined to qualify for the 2027 edition.”
Eyes on the Future
With an experienced technical team and one of Zambia’s greatest football icons now serving as mentor, the Young Chipolopolo will begin preparations for the COSAFA Under-17 Championship.
FAZ will be hoping that Kalaba’s leadership and the technical expertise of Kaunda and his staff can help Zambia return to the continental stage and secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
Conclusion
Rainford Kalaba’s appointment as Zambia Under-17 Team Ambassador adds another layer of experience and inspiration to the Young Chipolopolo setup.
As one of the heroes of Zambia’s 2012 AFCON triumph, Kalaba is expected to play an important role in shaping the next generation of football stars as they pursue qualification for the CAF Under-17 AFCON and ultimately the FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
