FMB seeks to extend U-20 league outreach

FMB launched the Under-20 league in Salima on Sunday with a declaration that it is seeking to extend the competition’s catchment area to more than 14 districts which are currently covered.

The launch, which marks 10 years of the sponsorship, comes after two more districts—Nkhotakota and Salima—were added to the bandwagon.

The funding for competition has also increased from K24 million to K30 million this year.

FMB head of branch banking and agriculture Patrick Kabambe said: “We are excited to extend the sponsorship to 10 years and also add two more districts. It is our wish to add some more districts in the near future.”

He cited poor infrastructure as one of the key challenges they face in organising the competition.

“Most of the district grounds are in bad shape and this is an area we feel we can work together with other stakeholders like government to improve on,” he said.

Minister of Labour, Youth, Sports and Manpower Development Francis Kasaila commended the bank for the support towards football development.

“We need more companies like FMB if our sports disciplines are to improve. We need such sponsors in tennis, boxing, netball and other areas,” he said.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) vice-president James Mwenda said with FMB’s continued support, the future of Malawi football looks bright.

“The players in this league are those playing in the junior national teams while others are in the Super League. These footballers are the ones that will graduate into the senior national team. This is how FMB has helped to improve football in the country,” he said.

In a launch game, Salima Select beat Kamuzu Select 1-0 in a friendly match played at Salima Community Ground. n