PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has awarded former Copperbelt Queens coach Bruce Mwape with the President’s Insignia of Meritorious Achievement for his outstanding work as head coach of the Zambia Women’s National Football Team.
Under Mwape’s leadership, the team had reached historic milestones which made them qualify for the Olympic Games in Tokyo 2020 and Paris in 2024.
The Copper Queens also took part in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in 2023.
Under Mwape, the Copper Queens won a bronze medal at the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations and became COSAFA Women’s Championship winners in 2022, followed by a silver medal in 2023.
Mwape, born on October 26, 1959 is a licensed coach who used to play for Nchanga Rangers and featured in the Zambia national football team, between 1978 and 1990.
He has over 30 years of coaching experience and has managed top Zambian clubs including Nchanga Rangers, Power Dynamos, Konkola Blades, Roan United and Konkola Mine Police.
Besides coaching, Mwape has mentored star players like Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, helping them grow into international football stars.
The President’s citation praised his dedication, hard work and commitment to bringing Zambia recognition on the global football stage.
“Your dedication and hardworking quality, and ensuring you bring the Zambia National flag to the world’s recognition deserves social recognition,” said President Hichilema.
Under the same category, Miracle Chipoto was also honoured for her international mixed martial arts skills.
The awards were conferred during the investiture Ceremony at State House to mark Zambia’s independence yesterday.
Others honoured in other categories include Bokolo Mutoyiwa, Berlingtone Mwape, Charles Mando, Dr Sixtus Mulenga, Dr Cecilia Shinondo posthumously, Dr Joseph Nkolola, George Siyuni (posthumously) and Bessie Chanda.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, October 25, 2025
