FAZ Names New U17 Technical Bench Ahead of COSAFA AFCON Qualifiers

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has unveiled a revamped technical bench for the Zambia Under-17 Men’s National Team ahead of next month’s COSAFA Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier tournament in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Zambian football legend Charles Musonda has been appointed as Technical Advisor, tasked with providing strategic oversight and aligning the U17 side with the national football philosophy. Ian Bakala will continue as head coach, although Zesco United assistant coach Emmanuel Siwale will stand in for him during the COSAFA championship.

FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shepande said the appointments followed extensive consultations with the Technical Directorate and were approved by the Executive Committee.

“Following a thorough evaluation process, including consultations with the Technical Directorate, performance appraisals of previous assignments, and alignment with the long-term national youth development strategy, FAZ wishes to announce the new technical bench for the Under-17 Men’s National Team,” Shepande said.

He emphasized Musonda’s role in mentoring the technical team, while praising Siwale’s track record in youth football development.

The new bench also features Lameck Banda as first assistant, Francis Kombe as second assistant, and Martin Mwamba as goalkeeper coach. Chipolopolo great Clive Hachilensa takes charge as physical trainer, with Emmanuel Kanswe and Isaac Sichali serving as team doctor and physiotherapist respectively. Gabriel Kalembo has been named team manager, while Moses Banda takes over as equipment manager.

Shepande also paid tribute to the outgoing bench members for their contribution.

Zambia will compete in Group B of the TotalEnergies CAF U17 AFCON 2026 | COSAFA Qualifiers alongside South Africa, Malawi, and Madagascar. The tournament runs from September 11 to 20 in Harare, with 12 teams battling for places at next year’s continental finals.