Government has upped Malawi Queens’ benefits to match those of the national football team (the Flames) following their performance at the just ended Fast5 World Netball Series in New Zealand.
The Queens will now be getting K30 000 each (about $100) in game allowances from K20 000 (about $66). They will also be receiving K2 000 (about $6.6) in training allowances each from K1 500 (about $5).
Minister of Sports Enock Chihana delivered the news at Sunbird Capital in Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe, Thursday afternoon during a luncheon government hosted for the Queens to welcome them from New Zealand.
“This is in acknowledgment of the achievement you have done for the nation. There should never be discrimination between you and the Flames in benefits and any other area. You deserve as much recognition as them,†said Chihana attracting applause from both players and officials.
“Just by virtue of participating in the world netball series, that is an achievement on its own. But beating Australia and England, that was something else,†said Chihana
The minister said government is committed to supporting activities of the team to make sure the Queens succeed in being among the top 3 teams in the world.
“We’ll also construct a modern netball court with modern training facilities to enable the team prepare well for international matches. It is also our commitment to finance international friendly games to enable you get exposure,†he said.
Queens captain Carol Mtekule, coach Griffin Saenda and Netball Association of Malawi president Rosy Chinunda appealed to government for more support.
The Queens finished fifth at the six-team event. They won three games (two against Australia and one against England) and lost to Jamaica, South Africa and New Zealand.
