By Suleman Chitera
The Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) and the Tertiary Education Students Sports Association of Malawi (TESSAM) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening netball development across tertiary education institutions in the country.Peter Mukhito to Launch Lilongwe City Centre Constituency Manifesto with Football and Netball Sports Bonanza
The partnership, signed in Blantyre, is expected to create a structured pathway for nurturing netball talent while enhancing the training of players, coaches, and umpires in universities and colleges nationwide.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, NAM President Vitumbiko Gubuduza described the agreement as a significant step towards building a strong and sustainable netball development system that starts from grassroots level and extends to tertiary institutions.
“We believe our collaboration will help improve netball standards in the country. Through this partnership, we will focus on player development, coaching education, umpiring courses, and creating opportunities for talented athletes to progress in the sport,” said Gubuduza.
She added that establishing strong netball structures in higher learning institutions will play a crucial role in producing future national team players and strengthening Malawi’s position as one of Africa’s leading netball nations.FDH Premier Netball League set to launch in Blantyre, ushering in a new era for Malawian Netball
TESSAM Vice-President Geoffrey Biya welcomed the partnership, saying it will provide a platform for technical officials and sports administrators to exchange knowledge and improve their skills while promoting competitive netball among university students.
With 21 registered universities under its umbrella, TESSAM believes the collaboration will unlock new opportunities for young athletes and help elevate the quality of netball competitions in tertiary institutions.
“This agreement is not only about growing the sport but also about creating a system where coaches, umpires, and players can continuously develop and share expertise,” said Biya.Netball Association of Malawi Set for Annual General Meeting
The Malawi National Council of Sports has also expressed its support for the initiative. Acting Chief Executive Officer Ivy Chinangwa said the government is committed to supporting partnerships that contribute to sports development and youth empowerment.
Sports analysts have described the agreement as a timely intervention that could bridge the gap between grassroots and elite netball, ensuring talented players continue their development while pursuing higher education.
The partnership comes at a time when Malawi’s netball continues to gain international recognition, with the country’s national team, the Queens, remaining among the top-ranked teams in the world.
Stakeholders believe the collaboration between NAM and TESSAM will help produce the next generation of netball stars while strengthening the overall sporting culture within Malawi’s universities and colleges.SULOM Lands K40 Million MAGLA Deal to Boost FDH Premiership Monthly Awards