It is a dream come true for Mwenya Chipepo, who has today signed a two-year contract to become head coach for Nkana Football club.
“It has been my dream to coach Nkana; my family is all Nkana; my father worked for this club, and he played for this club. He wanted me to coach Nkana one day,” he told the media during the unveiling ceremony.
After lenghty back and forth negiotations between his suitors and Forest Rangers, his immediate employers, Chipepo, hours after he signed a deal, guided Nkana to a 3-1 victory over Mufulira Wanderers in a Mopani derby.
Chipepo leaves Forest Rangers after eleven months at the helm of the Ndola side. He has previously coached Prison Leopards, Indeni Football Club, and Power Dynamos in the top-flight league.
It was at Power Dynamos that Chipepo conquered the Super League, guiding the Kitwe giants to a seventh league title.
While expressing admiration for the club, Chipepo also recognized the huge responsibility he has to change the fortunes of the club that is fighting relegation in the 2024/25 Super League season.
Chipepo has called for patience from the Nkana fanbase as he works on rebuilding and restoring the club’s lost glory.
“I watched the game on Wednesday; I don’t want to talk about players, but they did well. We missed a lot of chances; we know where to touch; we need to work on the striking force,” Chipepo said.
Chipepo understands the Club’s history.
“The fans will not be disappointed. To make them happen, I have to make sure I make a good side, but it can’t happen in one day. I want to promise them that they will be watching good football.”
“I have been a Nkana fan before; I was watching big clubs come here, Zamalek. We know what people want; I know the type of football they want and what players they would love to have at Nkana,” he concluded.
In the meantime, Nkana Club president Engineer. Joseph Silwamba said Chipepo got the job, because he understands the club’s philosophy.
“He has come in as new to coach, but he is a Nkana person; he understands the philosophy. He grew up around this area, so we believe that he is one person who understands Nkana. He’s got passion and the vision for Nkana. Myself and the exco, we have shared in his vision, and we are happy with what he has got for Nkana.”
