The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) says it has made significant progress in transforming football over the past year despite persistent financial challenges.
Speaking during the 2026 FAM Annual General Meeting (AGM), FAM President Fleetwood Haiya said the association has recorded major achievements in football development, governance reforms and strategic partnerships aimed at improving the game.
Haiya said FAM secured major sponsorships from the National Bank of Malawi for the National Division League, women’s football, grassroots football and tertiary education football. He added that prize money for the FDH Cup increased by 67 percent, while the Airtel Top 8 and Castel Challenge Cup competitions also received enhanced sponsorship.
He said FAM has strengthened youth football by signing a memorandum of understanding with the Malawi Schools Sports Association (MASSA) and establishing youth development centres at Luwinga in Mzuzu and Nsanje.Bushiri Pledges Support for Football Development in Ntcheu
Haiya also highlighted improvements in domestic competitions through the introduction of the National Division League, saying the second-tier competition has raised football standards and created a stronger pathway to the TNM Super League.
“On women’s football, Scorchers played several high-profile international friendly matches as part of preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), giving players and coaches valuable international exposure,” said Haiya.
The FAM President further said all national football teams have remained active over the past year despite inadequate government funding. He said the Flames, Scorchers, Beach Soccer and junior national teams participated in regional and continental competitions, helping to improve player development and team preparedness.
“Institutional reforms, including strengthening member associations, improving governance structures and promoting safer stadiums through security training aimed at curbing football violence,” explained Haiya.
He said FAM will continue engaging the government through the Malawi National Council of Sports and the Ministry of Sports to secure increased and consistent financial support.
Despite the challenges, Haiya expressed confidence that the Flames can qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), saying the association is focused on building a competitive team capable of delivering consistent results.
He urged all football stakeholders to remain united in implementing FAM’s transformation agenda to ensure the sustainable growth and success of football in Malawi.
Mitawa said a meeting between the SULOM Executive Committee and the FAM Executive Committee was productive, with both parties resolving all outstanding issues and agreeing to prioritise the welfare of players and clubs as part of efforts to strengthen football in the country.
