George Lwandamina named new Zambia coach after FAZ technical shake-up

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has appointed experienced trainer George Lwandamina as interim head coach of the Zambia national team, popularly known as the Chipolopolo.

The decision was confirmed in an official statement released by FAZ on March 5, 2026, announcing changes to the Chipolopolo technical bench as part of efforts to improve efficiency and strengthen the team’s performance.

According to FAZ acting Deputy General Secretary Iva Lengwe, Lwandamina will take charge of the team on an interim basis and will be assisted by Oswald Mutapa Jr., who currently coaches Power Dynamos.

The appointment follows FAZ’s decision to part ways with Wedson Sichone in the aftermath of the team’s participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations hosted in Morocco.

Lwandamina is no stranger to the national team setup. The veteran coach previously managed Chipolopolo between 2015 and 2016 before stepping aside to allow Wedson Nyirenda to take over the role. He currently serves as head coach of Nchanga Rangers in the domestic league.

FAZ also confirmed that assistant coach Perry Mutapa has been relieved of his duties following his involvement in the AFCON technical bench. The association clarified that only the positions of head coach and first assistant have been affected by the latest changes, while the rest of the technical team will continue in their respective roles.

The adjustments take effect immediately, with Lwandamina expected to begin preparations with the national team ahead of their upcoming assignment.

His first task will be to lead Zambia at the Four Nation Tournament scheduled to take place in Francistown, Botswana, from March 23 to 31, 2026.

With limited time before the competition begins, the newly formed technical bench has been tasked with assembling a competitive squad made up of both locally based and foreign-based players as Chipolopolo aim to make a strong showing at the tournament.