By Suleman Chitera
The festive season in Machinga District has received a thrilling boost following the launch of a football and netball tournament spearheaded by business mogul Elias Ngomano, proprietor of Ngom’s Oil.
The high-energy launch, staged in Liwonde, brought together law enforcement officers, community leaders, and sports lovers, setting the tone for a tournament that blends competitive sport with an important social mission: promoting security awareness across the district.
Speaking during the launch, Ngomano underscored the indispensable role of security in national and community development, noting that sport provides a powerful platform to engage citizens. He explained that the tournament is deliberately designed to draw crowds, creating an opportunity to sensitize communities on crime prevention and collective responsibility for safety.
“As communities come together to enjoy football and netball, we are also passing on vital messages about security. Development cannot thrive where people do not feel safe,” said Ngomano, who also serves as Chairperson for Machinga Community Policing. He added that the initiative is part of his commitment to giving back to customers and the wider community during the festive season.
The event was graced by Traditional Authority Nkula, who applauded the initiative, describing it as timely and strategic. The traditional leader observed that crime levels often rise during the festive period, making awareness campaigns of this nature both relevant and necessary.
On the pitch, fans were treated to an entertaining football showdown as Machinga Police edged out Liwonde Police 5–4 in a dramatic penalty shootout, igniting excitement and setting a competitive pace for the tournament.
With football and netball action continuing in the coming days, the Ngomano-sponsored tournament is fast shaping up as a flagship festive event—celebrating sport, strengthening community bonds, and reinforcing the message that security is everyone’s responsibility.
