Former Copper Queens head coach Bruce Mwape has died at the age of 67.
A family member confirmed that Mwape passed away in the early hours of today following a short illness.
Mwape will be remembered as one of the key architects of Zambia’s rise in women’s football, transforming the Copper Queens into one of Africa’s most respected national teams.
During his tenure, he guided Zambia to several historic milestones, including qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, marking the country’s first-ever appearance at the global tournament.
He also led the Copper Queens to back-to-back Olympic qualifications for the 2020 Summer Olympics and the 2024 Summer Olympics, making them the first Zambian football team—men or women—to achieve the feat.
One of his greatest achievements came at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where Zambia secured a historic third-place finish. The bronze medal also guaranteed the nation’s place at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Mwape was widely respected for his discipline, tactical approach, and willingness to trust young players. Under his leadership, stars such as Barbra Banda, Grace Chanda and Racheal Kundananji developed into some of Africa’s finest footballers.
Just last week, Mwape was among coaches and athletes who received outstanding allowances from the Zambian government.
His death marks the end of an era for Zambian football. Beyond the trophies and qualifications, Bruce Mwape leaves behind a lasting legacy of inspiring a generation of female footballers and elevating the Copper Queens onto the world stage.
May his soul rest in peace.
