The Malawi National Council of Sports board on Saturday met some sports associations at Kamuzu Institute for Sports in Lilongwe o appreciate their challenges and map the way forward.
In an interview yesterday, Sports Council acting chief executive officer Ivy Chinangwa said the meeting was also meant to learn why they are failing to adhere to sports guidelines introduced in 2022.
At least 14 associations did not satisfy requirements in the guidelines which has seen them miss out on annual government subventions.
for constructive dialogue. | Nation
Chinangwa said the meeting was also aimed at gaining deeper insight into the associations’ operations and governance structures.
She said: “The meeting was also designed to strengthen the working relationship with the associations.
“It provided a platform for constructive dialogue and the exchange of ideas between the board and sports associations’ leadership with the aim of fostering a more coordinated and effective sports development framework in Malawi.”
Chinangwa said having understood their challenges, they came up with recommendations on the way forward.
“This was the first step and we will be monitoring the progress in accordance with what was agreed. The engagement will be ongoing,” she said.
Meanwhile, Athletics Malawi technical director Dennis Phiri described the meeting as an eye-opener.
He said: “Today has been a good day because it is rare to meet the Sports Council board. We took this as a valuable opportunity to present our challenges, including funding issues. We also discussed governance issues and our visions as associations.
“It was a beneficial and insightful meeting that will help us improve as an association.”
The meeting was attended by presidents and general secretaries from associations based in the Central Region, including Malawi Handball Association, Malawi Paralympic Committee, Chess Association of Malawi, Malawi Aquatics Union, Malawi Boxing Association, Netball Association of Malawi, Volleyball Association of Malawi, Judo Association of Malawi, Athletics Malawi, Malawi Pool Association, Malawi Schools Sports Association and Table Tennis Association of Malawi.
Similar meetings are planned for Blantyre this Saturday and in Mzuzu on April 25.
