The First Lady of Malawi Madam Monica Chakwera on Tuesday hosted Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) newly-elected executive committee at Kamuzu Palace.
During the meeting, Madam Chakwera, who is also Matron of the association, offered to help NAM in its drive to restructure.
She commended the new NAM executive for having bold plans.
“I must commend you for the plans you have to establish governance structures to ensure accountability and transparency. I also commend you for the direction you are taking to step up a functional secretariat and also setting up an academy,” she said.
The First Lady said netball has the potential to transform the lives of not only individual players but also the country.
“Let’s work together to revive netball. Let’s bang heads together and find solutions so that netball can move forward. Netball has potential to transform not only individuals but whole communities,” she said.
Chakwera, who is spouse to President Lazarus Chakwera, also donated a set of uniform.
In her remarks, NAM president Vitumbiko Gubuduza, who is a lawyer by professional, described the meeting as fruitful.
She said: “I am excited with the meeting we had with the First Lady. It was a fruitful meeting. We briefed her on the strategic plans we have made to transform the game. We also asked her for support in our fundraising activities and if she could host some of them.
“We also brief her on our plans to establish an academy where young girls can be nurtured and learn from the legends of the game like Mary Waya and Peace Chawinga. But also provide a platform where we can mentor about the importance of education and a healthy lifestyle.”
Gubuduza also thanked the First Lady for the donation of the uniform.
“It’s a timely donation considering that the team is in camp already. We had plans to buy uniform but now Madame Chakwera has come to our rescue. We really are grateful,” she said.
Malawi is one of renowned netball nations in the world and has produced great netballers such as Waya, Chawinga, the late Conis Mhone.
Currently, shooter Mwawi Kumwenda M’bwana based in Australia, UK-based shooter Joyce Mvula and defender Towera Vinkhumbo are among top players.
Lauren Ngwira, Caroline Ngwira and Takondwa Lwazi also had a stint in UK.
