By Kalumiana Kalumiana
Nkana have stated their full confidence in ex-Chipolopolo defender and captain Elijah Tana to deliver in the 2026/2027 season after confirming him as head coach on a permanent basis after earlier acting in that capacity in the second half of the 2025/2026 season.
Tana was elevated to interim coach on March 3, 2026, after his ex-boss Mwenya Chipepo was sent on administrative leave following a poor run of results.
Chipepo and assistant coach Christopher Katongo, who was sidelined together with the former, formerly parted ways with Nkana on May 19, paving the way for the subsequent formalisation of Tana’s position.
In a statement released yesterday, Nkana chief executive officer Mwansa Kapyanga said Tana’s appointment was decided upon after a club executive meeting held on June 12 in Kitwe and that his bench also remains unchanged.
Tana’s confirmation sees him officially take charge of his first high-profile club since he retired from playing in 2011 when he joined Nchanga Rangers as an assistant coach.
“We are confident in the technical team we have assembled and believe they possess the qualities required to drive the club forward and satisfy the club’s sporting and strategic parameters,” Kapyanga stated.
“Nkana Football Club wishes the technical bench success as preparations for the forthcoming season continue. They have our full support as they work towards achieving the club’s objectives.”
Kapyanga stated that Josphat Nkhoma and Donashano Malama continue as first and second assistant coaches respectively.
Also maintaining their status are goalkeeper coach Michael Poto and team physical trainer Simon Bwalya.
Tana joined Nkana in October 2024 as one of Chipepo’s assistant.
During Tana’s time as caretaker coach last season, Nkana won 3, drew 5 and lost 4 games under his watch.
Tana lifted Nkana from third from bottom on the log at number 16 with 25 points to finish in 13th place with 39 points.
