By Edwin Mbewe
LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-A new chapter has unfolded at Football House after the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) announced the appointment of seasoned football administrator Charles Chakatazya as General Secretary with immediate effect.
The high-level changes, confirmed during a crucial Executive Committee meeting held on Monday also saw Iva Lengwe officially confirmed as Deputy General Secretary after serving in an acting capacity.
Chakatazya steps into the powerful administrative role following the departure of Machacha Shepande, who exits FAZ on mutual terms to take up an international assignment, bringing an end to his tenure at the helm of the association’s secretariat.
FAZ President Keith Mweemba described the appointments as a significant step in strengthening the leadership structure of the association at a critical moment for Zambian football.
“Today, the Executive Committee of the Football Association of Zambia met to deliberate on the appointment of the new General Secretary and the confirmation of Iva Lengwe as Deputy General Secretary following his acting role. On behalf of the Executive Committee, I wish to congratulate Mr. Charles Chakatazya and Mr. Iva Lengwe on their appointments,” Mweemba said.
With years of experience in football administration, Chakatazya arrives at Football House carrying a reputation built across some of Zambia’s biggest clubs.
He has previously served as Chief Executive Officer for Nkana, Kabwe Warriors and NAPSA Stars — three institutions deeply woven into the country’s football history.
Mweemba believes Chakatazya’s appointment could mark a turning point for the association.
“Mr. Chakatazya is a well-known football administrator who has served the game diligently at both local and international level. His vast experience from some of the country’s top Super League clubs will greatly benefit the association,” he said.
Beyond football, Chakatazya boasts an impressive academic and professional profile. He is a member of the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) and holds an MBA, a Bachelor of Accounting and Finance from Mulungushi University, and a Diploma in Accounting from Evelyn Hone College.
He has also earned a FIFA Diploma in Club Management in Zurich, a Certificate in Senior Leadership Development from the University of Cape Town, and is currently pursuing the CAF Executive Football Management Programme.
Meanwhile, Mweemba paid tribute to outgoing General Secretary Machacha Shepande, thanking him for his service and dedication during his time at Football House.
“I wish to thank Mr. Machacha Shepande for the service he rendered to the game and wish him well in his new endeavours. Even as he leaves, he remains an important member of the football family,” Mweemba said.
As one administrator exits and another steps into the spotlight, all eyes will now be on Chakatazya and Lengwe as they take on the task of steering Zambian football into a new era.
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