Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Commander Lt Gen Oscar Msitu Nyoni has handed Red Arrows head coach who is also a Warrant Officer Class Two (WOII), Chisi Mbewe, an official staff vehicle following the team’s historic qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.

The Airmen eliminated Kaizer Chiefs on Friday, winning 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 aggregate draw to reach the group stage for the first time in their history.

The vehicle, a Mark X, registration number ZAF-4623B, was handed over at ZAF Headquarters on Monday, October 26, 2026.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Lt Gen Nyoni said the allocation was in line with established Air Force tradition, under which the Red Arrows head coach is entitled to an official vehicle to facilitate his responsibilities.

“The vehicle is intended to enable you to perform your duties effectively. It will help you move from one point to another and report promptly at the stadium to prepare the team,” Lt Gen Nyoni said.

He explained that the decision followed a request by Red Arrows president Col. Moses Kambimbi for a vehicle to assist the coach in carrying out his responsibilities, adding that the club had been assured one would be provided when available.

ZAF Commander Reacts to CAF Qualification

Lt Gen Nyoni said the team’s qualification for continental competition coincided with the fulfilment of that commitment, providing an opportunity to formally hand over the vehicle to Mbewe.

He noted, however, that the provision of resources to Air Force personnel was guided by the applicable conditions of service and resource availability.

The ZAF Commander congratulated Red Arrows on their continental achievement and wished Mbewe and the team success in their upcoming domestic league and CAF Confederation Cup assignments.

The allocation underscores the Zambia Air Force’s continued institutional support for Red Arrows as the club prepares to compete on both domestic and continental fronts, the defence force said.