Eastern Region Football Association appoints new leadership for four-year term

By Burnett Munthali

The Eastern Region Football Association (ERFA) has taken a significant step toward strengthening football administration in the region with the appointment of a new leadership committee. The recent elective general meeting, which took place in Mangochi, saw the election of key figures who are set to steer the direction of football activities in the region for the next four years.

Abdul Chiwalo, who has been the interim chairperson of the association, was re-elected unopposed to the position of Chairperson. His re-election marks a continuation of his leadership role, and his unopposed run reflects a strong sense of stability and trust in his ability to lead the association forward. Chiwalo’s leadership has been seen as crucial in guiding the association through a transitional period, and his ongoing tenure signifies a mandate from the membership to continue his work in developing football in the Eastern Region.

In another decisive election, Francis Onions Phiri was elected as the new Secretary General of the association. Phiri, a candidate who gained significant support, received an overwhelming 14 votes compared to just a single vote for his opponent. This landslide victory demonstrates Phiri’s broad popularity and the confidence that members of the association have in his ability to manage the administrative aspects of the game effectively. As Secretary General, Phiri will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the association, ensuring that the objectives of the region’s football community are met.

Other positions within the association’s leadership were also filled with strong backing. Issa Ibrahim, a figure well-known within the footballing community, was elected unopposed as Vice Chairperson, a role that will see him supporting the Chairperson in executing key strategic decisions for the association. Similarly, Elia Nyirongo was elected unopposed as Vice Secretary General, further solidifying the leadership team’s commitment to the development of football in the region.

The positions of Treasurer and Vice Treasurer were also secured with minimal contest. Perkings Nkondiwa was appointed Treasurer, taking on the critical task of managing the financial affairs of the association, while Brenda Chunga was elected Vice Treasurer, a role that will see her support Nkondiwa in handling the financial matters for the region. Both appointments reflect the association’s focus on maintaining sound financial management to sustain and expand football activities.

In addition to these key positions, six executive members were also elected to contribute to the strategic decision-making process for football in the Eastern Region. These members will be integral to implementing policies, developing grassroots football programs, and ensuring that the region’s football teams have the support they need to thrive.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) Executive Committee member, Daud Mthanthiko, was present at the meeting and took the opportunity to address the newly elected leadership. Mthanthiko urged the new committee to work diligently and collaboratively to enhance football administration in the region. He emphasized the importance of fostering unity, implementing effective programs, and ensuring that football in the Eastern Region continues to grow both on and off the field. His remarks underscored the responsibility the new leadership holds in ensuring that the region’s football landscape remains vibrant, inclusive, and progressive.

The elections in Mangochi signal a fresh chapter for the Eastern Region Football Association, with a leadership team that is now firmly in place. The success of this leadership will depend on their ability to address the various challenges faced by football in the region, including the development of youth football, improving facilities, and ensuring that local teams have the support and resources they need to succeed.

As the Eastern Region embarks on this new phase, the association’s leadership will be expected to demonstrate vision, commitment, and hard work to uplift the region’s football standards and create a lasting impact. The collective effort of the new committee, alongside the support of local clubs and stakeholders, will be essential in shaping the future of football in the Eastern Region of Malawi.

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