For many years, the Football Association of Zambia’s (FAZ) National Team Technical Subcommittees have operated in the shadows of public football discourse. Not many people have paid attention.
As regards Chipolopolo’s performance, many fans, pundits, and journalists often focus on who’s in the dugout or on the pitch; however, scrutiny should be extended to this lesser-known committee that quietly influences some of the biggest decisions of our game.
Yesterday, Football House announced the new composition of the seven-member committee, which at that summit will be headed by FAZ president Keith Mweemba, who will be deputised by Kalusha Bwalya.
Other members of the committee include FAZ executive committee member Chisanga Pule, former international Kenneth ‘Bubble’ Malitoli, and women’s representative Priscilla Katoba.
Former Chipolopolo coach Patrick Phiri and seasoned trainer Daniel Kabwe complete the committee.
From overseeing coaching appointments to long-term technical planning, Bolanews reveals some of the duties of this committee as outlined in Article 44(3) of the FAZ Constitution.
“The National Team Technical Sub Committee shall consist of a Chairman and Vice-Chairman and 5 (five) other members,” the constitution reads in part. “The duties of the National Team Subtechnical Committee shall be to:”
1. “Deal with all matters related to all National Teams”
The committee oversees the technical direction of all national teams, that is to say, the youth national teams, the Copper Queens, and our beloved Chipolopolo. Ideally, it should offer oversight that could influence squad structure, game preparation, and long-term planning.
The committee has a say on player selection.
So there you have it: whenever Chipolopolo or any of our national teams are not performing well, don’t blame the coach alone.
2. “Advise and assist the Executive Committee on all national teams’ matters.”
While the Executive Committee (EXCO) makes final decisions, it often relies on the technical subcommittee’s recommendations. This advisory role gives the committee de facto sway in decisions like coaching hires or strategic shifts.
3. “Conduct interviews for national teams’ appointments.”
This is one of the most consequential roles. Whether Zambia hires a new Chipolopolo coach or appoints a U-17 assistant, the committee interviews and shortlists candidates.
Whenever the FAZ decides to conduct interviews for a coach at any national team level, that coach appears in front of this committee.
4. “Present minutes of all meetings to FAZ EXCO.”
The last duty is more of an administrative one. The committee is expected to communicate every decision to the broader FAZ leadership, allowing for scrutiny — at least on paper.
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