Barbra Banda: Copper Queens Determined to Honour Late Bruce Mwape at WAFCON
Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda says Zambia will compete at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with the memory of former head coach Bruce Mwape close to their hearts, as the team aims to pay tribute to the late tactician with a memorable tournament.
Mwape passed away on July 9, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Zambian women’s football. Banda revealed that the squad is united in its desire to honour the former coach during the continental showpiece, which will take place from July 25 to August 16.
Speaking during CAF’s virtual media engagement featuring several of Africa’s top women’s football stars, Banda described Mwape as more than just a coach, saying his influence on the national team would never be forgotten.
“The passing of Coach Bruce has been very painful for all of us. We have lost not only a coach but also someone who played a huge role in our football journey and taught us so much,” Banda said.
The Orlando Pride forward added that the team intends to channel their emotions into positive performances throughout the competition.
“Everything happens for a reason, and we are taking that motivation with us to WAFCON,” she said.
Team Remains Focused Despite Loss
Banda acknowledged that Mwape’s death has been difficult for the players to process but insisted the Copper Queens remain mentally prepared for the tournament.
“The girls are doing well, even though it has been a very difficult period for everyone. It was something none of us expected, but we have stayed together as a team,” she explained.
She further revealed that the squad hopes to dedicate a special achievement to the former coach.
“We are going to WAFCON carrying his spirit with us because he will always be part of this team. We want to do something special in his honour, and that is something we are all thinking about as players.”
Mwape served as Copper Queens head coach from 2018 to 2025, overseeing the most successful period in the history of Zambia’s women’s national team. Under his leadership, Zambia won a historic bronze medal at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, qualified for their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup and secured consecutive appearances at the Olympic Games before Swiss coach Nora Häuptle took over the national team.
Zambia has been placed in Group C at this year’s WAFCON alongside defending champions Nigeria, Egypt and Malawi. The Copper Queens begin their campaign against Egypt in Rabat on Monday.
The tournament also carries added significance, as the four semi-finalists will secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
