The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has re-appointed Chris Kaunda as head coach of the Under-17 Men’s National Team.

Kaunda will be assisted by Dennis Makinka, while Dabwitso Nkhoma, Collins Mbesuma and Joshua Titima have been appointed as second assistant coach, strikers coach and goalkeeper coach, respectively.

The association announced the appointments on Tuesday in a statement quoting FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya, who said the move was aimed at providing the team with direction ahead of the COSAFA engagement, which serves as a pathway to the AFCON and subsequently the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

“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 was quoted as saying.

“Part of the task of this bench will be to ensure that the team qualifies to the AFCON which is a get way to FIFA World Cup. Having missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, we are determined to qualify for the 2027 edition.”

Kaunda, affectionately known as “Takatiko,” is credited with guiding Zambia to their maiden Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification in 2015, with a team that was captained by Hamburger SV striker Patson Daka.

Meanwhile, Clive Hichilensa has been appointed as fitness coach, Nathan Sinkala as equipment manager, Matambo Lukhanda as team manager, and Keith Mulamba as security officer.

The medical team comprises Dr Emmanuel Kanswe and Isaac Sichali.

Chipolopolo legend and 2012 AFCON winner Rainford Kalaba has been appointed as team ambassador.