Tributes are pouring in from across the football fraternity, including from the Copper Queens, following the death of former Zambia women’s national team coach Bruce Mwape, who passed away at the age of 67 this morning in Chingola.
Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda and striker Racheal Kundananji have led the tributes.
“Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Coach Bruce Mwape,” the Orlando Pride striker, who won her first CAF Player of the Year award under Mwape, wrote on her Facebook page. “Thank you, Coach, for believing in me, helping me grow as a player, and trusting me with the honour of leading the Copper Queens. You played a huge role in my career and shaped me into the leader I am today.”
She added, “Your guidance, belief, and dedication to Zambian football will never be forgotten. Rest well, Coach. My heartfelt condolences to your family and the entire country as we mourn this great loss.”
Kundananji, who was handed her Copper Queens debut by Mwape, described the late coach as the man who believed in her.
“Rest in peace Coach Bruce Mwape!. Thank you for believing in me, for shaping me and for paving the way for Zambian women’s football. Learning about your demise has just left us shuttered! Your legacy will live on in all of us. We will miss you, Coach.”
Mwila pens emotional message
Former Copper Queens assistant coach Florence Mwila, who alongside Mwape guided Zambia to its first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) bronze medal before leading the Copper Queens to their maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup and back-to-back Olympic Games appearances, described him as a mentor.
“Waking up to such devastating news. Awe Chafina [it’s painful],” she said. “Thank you for the mentorship, I am what I am because of the knowledge you imparted in me. I could call you anytime when I was stuck in my coaching. A father figure, a mentor.”
Mwape was in charge of the Copper Queens from 2018 until 2025, when he was replaced by Swiss coach Nora Häuptle.
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