ZAMBIAN FOOTBALL LEGEND ASHIOS MELU HONOURED 29 YEARS AFTER HIS DEATH
Zambian football legend and former Chipolopolo captain Ashios Jordan Melu, popularly known as “Super Ash,” has been honoured posthumously by President Hakainde Hichilema, 29 years after his death.
The late Mufulira Wanderers icon was recognised during the national investiture ceremony held at State House on Saturday, October 24, 2026, as Zambia celebrated its 62nd Independence Anniversary.
Melu, who died in January 1997, was honoured for his outstanding contribution to Zambian football and his role in raising the country’s sporting profile internationally.
One of Zambia’s most celebrated footballers, Melu captained the national team from 1988 to 1992 and famously led Chipolopolo to the quarterfinals of the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, where Zambia stunned football giants Italy 4-0.
He was twice crowned Zambian Footballer of the Year, in 1983 and 1987, and scored an extraordinary 43 league goals during the 1983 season.
After retiring from playing, Melu ventured into coaching and guided Mighty Mufulira Wanderers to consecutive league championships in 1995 and 1996, ending the club’s long wait for league glory.
His recognition comes nearly three decades after his passing, ensuring that his contribution to Zambian football continues to be celebrated by future generations.
Other sports personalities honoured during the ceremony included celebrated boxer Patrick Chinyemba and Copper Princesses Under-17 head coach Carol Kanyemba.