By Suleman Chitera
National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has set November 8 as the day for the launch of the Mo626 Varsity Games at Mzuzu University, bringing together students from tertiary institutions across the country.
NBM plc has organised the games in collaboration with the Tertiary Students Sports Association of Malawi (TESSAM) and the Basketball Association of Malawi (BASMAL), with a combined sponsorship package of K450 million from the ‘Bank of the Nation’.
Of this amount, K300 million will support TESSAM activities, while K150 million will go towards BASMAL.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lilongwe, NBM plc Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager, Akossa Hiwa, said the initiative goes beyond promoting sports, as it also aims to contribute to youth development.
“These games will not only help identify and nurture sporting talent but will also build confidence and leadership among young people. At National Bank of Malawi, we recognise that young people are the driving force of our nation’s future. This is why we continue to invest in initiatives that empower, educate, and inspire them,” said Hiwa.
Hiwa also commended TESSAM and BASMAL for their continued dedication to developing sports among tertiary students.
“As a Bank, we acknowledge TESSAM and BASMAL for their tireless efforts in coordinating tertiary-level sporting programmes, which provide students with opportunities to compete, collaborate, and showcase their talents,” she added.
On his part, TESSAM Vice General Secretary Noel Kapito thanked NBM plc for the sponsorship, saying the support will go a long way in promoting university-level sports.
“We thank National Bank for this sponsorship. With the resources which we have received, we are so sure that this is going to be a great tournament. Universities are not only about academics, and these games are crucial to sports development in the country,” said Kapito.
Also present at the briefing, BASMAL Vice General Secretary, Edda Mkombezi said the partnership will help nurture basketball talent and strengthen the sport’s foundation in the country.
“These games encourage competition among universities and help identify talented players who can contribute to the growth of sports in Malawi,” added Mkombezi.
The Mo626 Varsity Games are part of a huge sports sponsorship which NBM plc made of a total of 1.5 billion Kwacha.
