Suleman Chitera 
By Suleman Chitera
LILONGWE — The Football Legends Association (FLA) has raised an impressive K254.2 million through a series of fundraising initiatives aimed at supporting former football players and improving their welfare.
The latest boost came on Friday evening when the association raised K50 million during a fundraising dinner held at the Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.
The amount adds to financial contributions previously received from companies and well-wishers who have supported the association in its efforts to provide assistance to football legends.
FLA Director Jim Kalua expressed gratitude to all individuals, companies and organisations that have contributed towards the initiative, saying the association’s long-term ambition is to become financially self-sustaining.
Kalua said the support demonstrates the growing recognition of the contribution made by former footballers to the development and promotion of the sport in Malawi.
He thanked the various stakeholders for standing with the legends and urged continued support as the association works to improve the welfare of its members.
Speaking as guest of honour, Minister of Sports Alfred Gangata said former footballers deserve to be honoured and supported because of the significant role they played in bringing pride and happiness to Malawians during their playing careers.
Gangata said the country’s football legends should not be forgotten after retiring from active football, stressing the importance of recognising their contribution to Malawi’s sporting history.
Meanwhile, Mighty Wanderers team leader Thom Mpinganjira demonstrated his support for the initiative by purchasing a football and tracksuit for K22 million.
Mpinganjira commended the FLA leadership for its commitment to improving the welfare of former players and urged other stakeholders to follow suit.
The fundraising drive is being viewed as an important step towards creating a sustainable support system for Malawi’s football legends, many of whom dedicated the best years of their lives to entertaining fans and raising the country’s profile through football.
With K254.2 million now raised, the FLA hopes to build on the momentum and attract even more support from the corporate world, football fraternity and well-wishers.
The initiative also highlights the growing call for Malawi to develop stronger welfare structures for former athletes, ensuring that those who contributed to the country’s sporting success are recognised and supported long after their playing careers have ended.
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