🔥 Trending Bruce Mwape: Remembering the Legendary Copper Queens Coach

Bruce Mwape was a highly respected Zambian football coach, best known for his transformative role as the head coach of the Zambia women's national team, affectionately known as the Copper Queens ³⁶. His recent passing on July 9, 2026, at the age of 67, has led to widespread mourning in the Zambian and African football communities ²³⁶.

Early Career and Appointment to the Copper Queens

Mwape's coaching career saw him take the helm of the Zambia women's national team in May 2018, succeeding Albert Kachinga ¹⁵. This appointment marked the beginning of a highly successful period for Zambian women's football ⁵.

Key Achievements and Legacy

Bruce Mwape's tenure as head coach of the Copper Queens was characterized by several significant achievements that elevated Zambian women's football onto the global stage:

• Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Qualifications: He successfully guided the national team to qualify for three WAFCON tournaments, including the 2018, 2022, and 2024 editions ⁵. While the team did not advance past the group stage in 2018 ¹, their consistent qualification underscored Mwape's impact.
• FIFA Women's World Cup Debut: Under his leadership, the Copper Queens made history by qualifying for the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023 ⁷. This was a monumental first for Zambia, showcasing Mwape's ability to develop the team into a continental and global powerhouse ⁷.
• Transformative Impact: Mwape is widely credited with transforming women's football in Zambia, bringing it to unprecedented heights ³⁷. His dedication and strategic guidance were instrumental in putting Zambia on the world map of football ³.

Passing and Tributes

Bruce Mwape passed away at the age of 67 on July 9, 2026, following a short illness ⁶⁷⁸. He died at Nchanga South Mine Hospital in Chingola District, located in the Copperbelt Province ⁴. His death has been met with deep sadness across Zambia and Africa, with many remembering him as a legend and a pivotal figure in the development of women's football ³⁵. The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President, Keith Mweemba, described Mwape as a remarkable coach who left behind a lasting legacy ⁴⁶.