Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 17th June, 2025.
Rabat, Morocco.

Zambian military boxer Private Nene Maonga got Zambia off to a flying start at the African Military Boxing Championship in Morocco, booking his place in the next round with a dominant performance in the light flyweight (46-49kg) division.

Maonga outclassed Mozambique’s Yussuf Yassine in a tactical three-round bout, earning a unanimous points decision from the judges. His victory marks Zambia’s first win of the tournament and injects momentum into the team’s campaign.

However, the opening rounds proved tough for some members of the Zambian squad. Corporal Ben Banda fell short in the 60kg category, losing to host nation favourite Fadel Zouhir of Morocco. In another closely contested bout, Corporal Samson Phiri was defeated by Nigeria’s Gbadamsi Quadri.

Despite the early setbacks, Zambia’s medal hopes remain alive, with three boxers yet to make their tournament debuts. Among them are experienced Staff Sergeant Patrick Chinyemba, Private Albert Ngulube, and Leading Aircraftsman Emmanuel Ngoma, all expected to bring intensity to the ring in their respective weight classes.

Zambia’s six-member team is a blend of talent from the Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force and Zambia National Service. The delegation is led by Lt. Col. Noel Mumbi, with Lt. Catherine Phiri manages the squad. Coaching duties are handled by seasoned trainer Warrant Officer Class One Wisdom Mudenda, while Warrant Officer Class One Darius Kabwe serves as Zambia’s official tournament referee.

The African Military Boxing Championship continues through the week and will culminate on Friday when the continent’s top uniformed fighters will be crowned. All eyes now turn to the next bout as Zambia looks to build on Maonga’s early success.

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The Agency.