Malawi Freedom Network By Suleman Chitera
25 August 2026
The Flames Legends Association (FLA) has received a combined K8 million from two corporate companies to support its activities, including the welfare of former Malawi national football players.
Simama Hotel contributed K5 million, while Austo Brake & Clutch donated K3 million, in a show of support for the association and the football legends who represented Malawi on the international stage.
The K5 million contribution from Simama Hotel was presented during a ceremony in Lilongwe.
Speaking during the handover, Simama Hotel Operations Director Fiskani Kazembe said the hotel values its relationship with FLA and recognises the contribution former Flames players made to Malawi football.
“We appreciate the relationship we have with FLA. We are happy to offer our services to you. We recognise players who brought pride and prominence to the country,” Kazembe said.
Austo Brake & Clutch Managing Director Austin Kasito said the company decided to support the legends as part of its commitment to giving back to communities that support its business.
Kasito said sport remains important to the company and that the former Flames players deserve appreciation for the memorable moments they gave Malawians.
“We love sports and we like to give back to the communities that support our business. They gave us good moments as a country and we need to appreciate them,” he said.
FLA trustee Kinnah Phiri, a former Flames captain and coach, expressed gratitude to the two companies, saying the contributions would go towards the association’s medical scheme and its Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled for Saturday at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.
Phiri said the association still needs substantial financial support to meet its overall budget.
“We really appreciate their contributions. The funds will go towards the intended purpose, the medical scheme and the Annual General Meeting,” he said.
According to Phiri, FLA’s total budget stands at K250 million, leaving the association with a deficit of K58 million.
He, however, expressed confidence that the association would mobilise the outstanding amount in the remaining days.
The latest corporate support highlights growing recognition of the needs of former footballers, particularly in areas such as healthcare, while also strengthening partnerships between FLA and the private sector.
The Flames legends have previously played a significant role in putting Malawi football on the regional and international map, and FLA has been advocating for improved welfare and sustainable support for former national team players.
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