Zambia’s Mwale beats Ghana’s Amadu to claim featherweight gold at IBA Africa Championships

Zambia’s Mwengo “1 on 1” Mwale defeated Ghana’s Mohamed Amadu, popularly known as Crawford Jr., by a narrow 3-2 split decision to win gold in the featherweight (54-57kg) division at the 2026 IBA Africa Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mwale overcame a difficult challenge from the Ghanaian boxer, despite carrying a cut sustained during an earlier bout, to secure victory in a closely contested final.

The Zambian was also facing a familiar opponent, having lost to Amadu at the 2024 All-African Games in Ghana.

However, Mwale turned the tables this time, with three of the five judges scoring the contest in his favour to hand Zambia its third gold medal of the championships.

He joins compatriots Albert Ngulube and Gerald “Boyka” Kabinda as gold medallists, while Catherine “Queen Catherine” Mwape secured silver.

Zambia’s achievement has been particularly impressive, with the five-member team returning home with four medals – three gold and one silver.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s Black Bombers also secured two medals, with the three-member contingent winning one silver and one bronze.

Despite missing out on gold, Amadu earned recognition for his performance, although concerns have been raised about the level of motivation and support available to Ghanaian boxers compared with their counterparts.

Questions have also emerged over the officiating during the competition, with suggestions that some decisions did not go in Ghana’s favour.

The results will provide further talking points about the need to improve support and preparation for Ghanaian boxers as they seek to compete for continental honours.