Malawi’s national netball squads, the Queens and the Kings, have received a timely boost ahead of the African Netball Championship, set for 8-14 December in Lilongwe, after President Peter Mutharika pledged K10 million in support.
The contribution, delivered on the President’s behalf by First Lady Gertrude Mutharika, comes as both teams intensify preparations for the continental tournament.
During her visit to the Griffin Saenda Indoor Sports Complex, the First Lady urged players to give their best on home soil, a gesture officials said provided a significant morale boost at a critical stage of their training camps.
Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) General Secretary Yamikani Kauma welcomed the donation, noting that the funds address pressing needs that had strained preparations.
The support, split equally with K5 million allocated to each team, has energized the squads and will ensure smooth operations during the final phase of their training.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Patricia Wiskes described the donation as timely, reinforcing government efforts to strengthen netball in Malawi.
She said the ministry is collaborating with NAM and other partners to improve resources for the sport and ensure the country is fully prepared to host the championship.
“The upgrades to our facilities are progressing well,” Wiskes added, emphasizing that the teams must capitalize on home advantage and deliver strong performances.Meanwhile, Limbani Matola, chairperson of the local organizing committee, reported significant progress in tournament preparations.
He highlighted improvements to electricity and water systems, refurbishments to the wooden floor at the venue, and ongoing coordination on transport, logistics, and accommodation.
Matola reassured stakeholders that Malawi remains on track to deliver a high-standard championship.
While final fixture adjustments are being coordinated with Africa Netball, he confirmed that the event’s quality and international rating will remain intact.
“Final touches are underway, and we are confident the venue will be fully ready ahead of the opening matches,” he said.
