By 
Kabwe-based Leopards Football Club, currently competing in the Zambia Super League, have reportedly mutually agreed to part ways with veteran head coach Justin Chinama.
Also leaving the club are assistant coach Donewell Yobe and goalkeeper trainer Lameck Nyangu.
The development was confirmed Saturday in Lusaka by Zambia Correctional Service Sports and Culture Affairs Director, Assistant Commissioner Divino Kifita, according to a statement issued by FC Leopards Public Relations Manager, Alex Basop on Friday.
Kifita expressed gratitude to the trio for their service and dedication to the club.
“I would like to confirm that we have mutually agreed to separate with head coach Mr Justin Chinama, his assistant Mr Donewell Yobe, and goalkeeper trainer Mr Lameck Nyangu. We sincerely thank them for the contribution they made to the club,” he said.
Chinama joined FC Leopards last year and played a key role in guiding the team to promotion to the elite league.
His coaching résumé includes stints at Green Buffaloes and Mufulira Wanderers, among other clubs.
Kifita further announced the appointment of Chief Inspector Sunday Sichimata as interim head coach, effective immediately.
“A new and permanent coach will be announced soon, but in the interim we have asked Chief Inspector Sunday Sichimata to help the team,” he said.
He also called on Leopards supporters to rally behind Sichimata and continue supporting the team.
Chief Inspector Sichimata, an employee of the Zambia Correctional Service, expressed humility and confidence following his appointment.
“I am humbled to have been given this rare opportunity to help the team. With teamwork, a lot can be achieved,” he said.
Sichimata is a CAF C–licensed coach and former defender with strong playing and coaching credentials.
During his playing career, he featured for Mufulira Blackpool, Nchanga Rangers, and FC Leopards, where he earned a reputation for defensive discipline and commitment.
After retiring from active football, Sichimata transitioned into coaching with a particular focus on youth development.
He has coached several youth sides, including Young Leopards, contributing significantly to player development and team structure.
In 2024, he was part of the technical bench that guided Young Leopards to victory in the Central Province Division One League, earning qualification for the National League playoffs, eventually securing promotion to the National Division One League.
FC Leopards are scheduled to face Green Buffaloes this Saturday at Edwin Imboela Stadium in Lusaka — a notable local fixture sometimes referred to as a “military derby.”
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments