HH HONOURS CHINYEMBA, KANYEMBA AND LATE MELU
Three of Zambia’s sports personalities have been honored by President Hakainde Hichilema for their outstanding contributions to the development of sport and their efforts in raising Zambia’s profile on the international stage.
The honours were conferred during an investiture ceremony at State House on Saturday, October 24, 2026, as Zambia celebrated 62 years of Independence.
Those recognised included boxer Patrick Chinyemba, Copper Princesses head coach Carol Kanyemba and the late football legend Ashios Jordan Melu, who was honoured posthumously
Chinyemba, popularly known as Bado, was recognised for his achievements in amateur boxing and his representation of Zambia at major international competitions, including the commonwealth and Paris Olympic Games.
Born on January 3, 2001, in Lusaka, Chinyemba has established himself as one of the country’s leading boxing talents. He has won several senior national titles and competed in International Boxing Association (IBA) and World Championship events.
Kanyemba, who leads Zambia’s Under-17 women’s national football team, the Copper Princesses, was honoured for her contribution to youth development and women’s football which saw her becoming the first Zambian coach male or female to qualify for the World Cup 3 times in a row.
Born on January 23, 1988, in Kateete, she has guided the team through regional and international competitions, including FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The late Melu was recognised for his remarkable career as a footballer, national team captain and coach, which left a lasting mark on Zambian football.
Congratulations 🎉