Zambia is mourning the death of former Copper Queens head coach Bruce Mwape, who has died at the age of 67.
A family member confirmed that the veteran football coach passed away in the early hours of today following a short illness.
Mwape leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of the most successful coaches in the history of Zambian women’s football, having transformed the Copper Queens into one of Africa’s most competitive national teams.
Bruce Mwape Led Copper Queens to Historic Milestones
Bruce Mwape will forever be remembered as the coach who ushered in the golden era of the Copper Queens.
Under his leadership, Zambia achieved several historic milestones that elevated the country’s profile on the international football stage.
Among his greatest achievements was guiding Zambia to its first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification in 2023, a landmark moment in the nation’s football history.
He also made history by leading the Copper Queens to qualify for the Olympic Games twice—first for Tokyo 2020 and again for Paris 2024. The feat made the Copper Queens the first Zambian national football team, men’s or women’s, to qualify for the Olympic Games, and the first to achieve the feat on two occasions.
Bronze Medal at WAFCON
Mwape’s success extended beyond World Cup qualification.
He guided Zambia to a third-place finish at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the country’s best-ever performance at the continental tournament.
That bronze medal not only marked a historic achievement but also secured Zambia’s maiden appearance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Mentor to Zambia’s Biggest Women’s Football Stars
Bruce Mwape was widely respected for his discipline, tactical approach and willingness to trust young players.
During his tenure, he played a significant role in developing some of Zambia’s biggest football stars, including:
Barbra Banda
Grace Chanda
Racheal Kundananji
The trio has since gone on to establish themselves among Africa’s top female footballers, earning international recognition with both club and country.
Recently Honoured by Government
Just last week, Bruce Mwape was among coaches and athletes who received outstanding allowances from the Zambian Government in recognition of their service and achievements in sport.
His passing comes only days after that recognition, making the news even more heartbreaking for the football fraternity.
Tributes Expected to Pour In
As news of his death spreads, tributes are expected from football administrators, current and former players, supporters and sports lovers both in Zambia and abroad.
Many have described Mwape as more than just a coach, but a mentor who inspired a generation of female footballers to believe they could compete with the world’s best.
A Legacy That Will Live On
Bruce Mwape’s impact on Zambian football extends far beyond trophies and qualifications.
He changed perceptions about women’s football, inspired young girls across the country to pursue the sport and helped place Zambia firmly on the global football map.
His achievements with the Copper Queens will remain some of the greatest moments in the history of Zambian sport.
Bruce Mwape may have passed away, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of footballers for years to come.
May his soul rest in peace.