The Chipolopolo are in the semi-final of the ongoing tournament in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea and will face Ghana on Wednesday.
Zambia army spokesperson Christopher Musonda said in a statement: “The president of the republic of Zambia and commander in chief of the armed forces His Excellence Michael Chilufya Sata, has promoted Zambia national soccer team captain Christopher Katongo to warrant officer class one with immediate effect for displaying exemplary leadership and skill in the team which has contributed to the team’s good performance.”

Katongo has expressed his delight for the honour and his hope that they will progress to the final to annex the trophy.

"I am speechless! I don't have the right words to use apart from thanking the president for recognising my efforts," the Times of Zambia quoted him.