Bridging the gap

Incumbent Football Association of Malawi (FAM) president Walter Nyamilandu last evening unpacked bold and ambitious promises when he launched his manifesto ‘Bridging the Gap’ at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.

Speaking during the launch as he seeks re-election in the December 16 FAM elections, he said his ‘Bridging the Gap’ manifesto is a campaign to benchmark Malawi football with the best in the world by setting high standards.

Said Nyamilandu: “It seeks to unlock our potential and unleash our capabilities to achieve excellence and greatness in football by being player-centric, talent-driven and business-oriented.

“The overall vision is to contribute towards improving the socio-economic development of the country and promoting its culture through a thriving football industry.” 

He will face Super League of Malawi president Fleetwood Haiya, who launches his manifesto tomorrow at the same venue.

Starting with the elite league, a visibly fired up Nyamilandu promised to increase grants towards elite clubs  from K8 million to K25 million by 2027, boost incentives for the clubs by stipulating minimum sponsorship values of K300 million, minimum prizes  with the winner carting home  K100 million, runners-up K75 million, third-placed receiving K50 million and fourth-placed K25 million by 2027.

He also announced plans to downsize the number of participating teams in the Super League from 16 to 12 and standardise the numbers in the regional leagues to reduce costs and stimulate competition.

On promotion of rural football, Nyamilandu said he will increase sponsorship of the FAM District Cup and Division One from K2 million to K5 million per district  as well as regional cups from K25 million to K50 million by 2027.

He also promised an increase in affiliate grants from K30 million to K60 million, promises to build a 40 000-seated stadium.

“Constructing a football stadium of 40 000 seating with an inbuilt sports village containing netball, basketball, volleyball courts and running tack. Discussions at a very advanced stage with the investor,” said the FAM president.

Nyamilandu assured that it is not a campaign gimmick as he has secured partners and sponsorships.

Minister of Youth and Sports Uchizi Mkandawire, who was the guest of honour, assured they are ready to work with new officer bearers, saying he will also attend tomorrow’s launch of Haiya’s manifesto.

Former FAM general secretary Charles Nyirenda now a sports pundits, said with the current devaluation there is need to increase the prize money and also subvention.

He said: “Perhaps the benchmark would be the minimum a team needs to fulfil its seasonal league commitments in the Super League. Then that figure can be translated into dollars because this currency is steadier from a standpoint of inflation.

“Subvention to me is necessary, but ought not to be a habit. As things stand now, clubs can be helped with something from Sulom although what they deserve most is money arising from coverage rights involving TV and radio broadcasts.

“That is the route which is more sustainable. Otherwise, it’s inappropriate to institutionalise patronisation or dependency. Clubs have to commercialise and be largely self-reliant.”

In a separate interview, Mighty Mukuru Wanderers acting chief executive officer Roosevelt Mpinganjira touted the manifesto, saying if implemented it can turn around football standards in the country.

He said: “Manifesto is the voice and blueprint of an aspiring candidate. His manifesto is looking at certain standards to be at par with world standards if well implemented. What he has promised many candidates can’t because he is an idealistic person. Despite some challenges football has made great strides since he was elected in 2004.”

Mpinganjira also said  during his 19 years at the helm Nyamilandu has won the confidence of the corporate sponsors, most of whom have returned after withdrawing.

Chitipa United Football Club last season spent K88 million according to the club’s general secretary Duma Ng’oma.

“We will welcome the candidate who will increase prize money in both the league and cup games. The increment of club subvention from K5 million to K25 million is a good starting point considering the devaluation. Most teams are sponsored by communities,” he said.

Newly promoted Baka City  club manager Alick Lungu also applauded the need for increased subvention

“We don’t have a fixed sponsorship, but depend on few individuals who are financing the club. Issues of increased subvention and prize money will help clubs like ours sustain ourselves and players welfare,” he said.