Experienced football administrator Kelvin Mutafu has been appointed Zesco United FC’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), replacing Ponga Liwewe, who left the club on mutual separation after a brief spell in October.

And Zesco has also confirmed the elevation of Emmanuel Siwale as head coach, having held the position as acting coach since the departure of George Lwandamina last year.

The appointments were confirmed by club chairperson Patricia Musiya at a media briefing held at the club’s secretariat in Ndola today.

 “Today, we are proud to announce the appointment of Mr Kelvin Mutafu as Chief Executive Officer of ZESCO United Football Club. The appointment of Mr Mutafu followed a vigorous recruitment process. All procedures and requirements of recruitment were fulfilled,” Musiya said.

Mutafu’s experience in Zambian football

Mutafu brings a wealth of experience, having worked in football since 2009.

His involvement in Zambian football stretches back decades. He led Forest Rangers from 2000 to 2009, a tenure highlighted by the team’s return to the Super League in 2003 and their Coca-Cola Cup triumph in 2005.

Following his club success, he was appointed treasurer of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) in 2009, leveraging his accounting expertise. He served in that role until 2016 and was part of the delegation that secured the historic 2012 AFCON title.

In 2021, Mutafu took up the position of CEO at Nkana. He remained with the club until the 2023/24 campaign, stepping down after choosing not to renew his contract.

 “Our new CEO brings to the club a wealth of experience in football management, spanning 20 years at the club level,” Musiya said.

Meanwhile, Zesco has officially promoted Emmanuel Siwale to the role of head coach. His appointment follows nearly two years of service in an interim capacity.

 “On the technical bench, Mr Emmanuel Siwale was appointed as head coach. To support his role at the club level, Mr Matthews Ndhlovu was appointed to head the club games,” she said.

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