By Suleman Chitera
The Eastern Region Football Association (ERFA) says it has delivered strong results in managing regional leagues during its first year, citing improved coordination and effective administration across districts.
Speaking at the association’s second Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Mangochi, ERFA chairperson Issah Brahim credited the progress to solid cooperation with district football committees from Zomba, Phalombe, Balaka, Machinga and Mangochi.
Brahim said the working relationship with the committees ensured smoother league operations, better adherence to fixtures and improved discipline throughout the season.
“Our achievements are a result of teamwork and commitment from all district committees,” he said, adding that the association remains focused on strengthening football structures in the Eastern Region.
However, delegates at the AGM expressed concern over questionable refereeing decisions and limited training opportunities for key football stakeholders.
Zomba District Football Committee chairperson Lawrence Msusa acknowledged the general success of the season but pointed out inconsistencies in officiating.
“Things have gone well except for issues concerning referees, whose decisions raised concerns, and the lack of training,” said Msusa.
The concerns centred on match officiating standards and the need for structured training programmes for referees, coaches and administrators to enhance professionalism and consistency.
In response, Brahim admitted the challenges and assured delegates that ERFA would prioritise capacity building in the upcoming season.
“We recognise the concerns raised and will intensify training initiatives for referees, coaches and administrators to improve the quality and credibility of our competitions,” he said.
Meanwhile, ERFA announced a significant boost for participating teams, increasing annual subventions from K1 million to K2 million. The increment is expected to ease financial burdens on clubs grappling with rising operational costs.
With increased funding and promises of technical reforms, ERFA now turns its focus to consolidating its administrative gains while raising standards on the pitch in its second year of operation.
