Former Pirates Midfielder Appointed Caps United Coach In Zimbabwe

HARARE — Former Orlando Pirates midfielder and ex-Malawi captain Joseph “Shakira” Kamwendo has returned to familiar ground after being appointed to the technical team at CAPS United, marking a new chapter in his post-playing career in Zimbabwean football.

Kamwendo, who enjoyed one of the most decorated spells of his playing career at the Harare-based giants, has been named second assistant coach and head of development ahead of the new Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League season, which kicks off in February.

In an interview with The African Chronicle, Kamwendo confirmed his appointment and said he would work under head coach Takesure Chilagwi, a former teammate from his playing days at CAPS United.

“It’s at CAPS United. I am the head of development and second assistant coach for the main team. The head coach is a local guy, Takesure Chilagwi. I played with him as well,” Kamwendo said.

The appointment carries deep personal significance for the former midfield enforcer, who first rose to prominence at CAPS United before earning a move to Europe and later joining South African giants Orlando Pirates.

“This was my first professional club and the team that gave me the opportunity to play in Europe,” he said. “It means a lot to come back and serve the club again, this time in a different capacity. I am honoured and grateful to the club president, Honourable Farai Jere, for the opportunity. I will do my best to help bring back the glory days.”

Kamwendo’s return is seen as part of CAPS United’s broader effort to rebuild both its first team and long-term player pipeline, with the club placing renewed emphasis on youth development and technical stability. His dual role is expected to see him work closely with young players while also contributing to the senior team’s tactical setup.

During his playing days, Kamwendo etched his name into Zimbabwean football history by becoming the first foreign player to be crowned Zimbabwe Soccer Star of the Year, an accolade that underlined his impact during his time at CAPS United. His performances later earned him a move to Denmark before he joined Orlando Pirates, where he further cemented his reputation as a hard-working and disciplined midfielder.

At the international level, Kamwendo captained the Malawi national team and was a mainstay in the Flames setup for several years, bringing leadership and experience to both club and country.

Since hanging up his boots, he has steadily built a coaching résumé across the region. Most recently, he was in charge of Malawi Super League side Creek Sports FC, following earlier stints with other Malawian teams as he worked through the coaching ranks.

His appointment has been welcomed by supporters who view his return as a symbolic reconnection with a successful era in the club’s history, as well as a practical step towards nurturing the next generation of CAPS United players.

As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Kamwendo’s experience, both as a decorated former player and a developing coach, translates into results on the pitch and growth off it for one of Zimbabwe’s most storied clubs.