Government has underlined the need for the corporate sector to support various sporting activities in the country, saying sports play a critical role in promoting unity and health.
President Lazarus Chakwera made the appeal Thursday at the World War 1 Memorial Tower in Lilongwe after taking part in the “Fit to Run Malawi Expedition Relay Race”.
The race was organised by Tauka Athletic Club to raise money amounting to K300 million to support the country’s athletes with equipment, purchase of a bus and construction of an Athletic Training Centre.
In an interview with the media on the sidelines of the race, Chakwera underscored the need for the country’s citizens to join hands in uplifting sports, saying sports play a huge role in economic transformation.
“Other countries are reaping huge benefits after investing in sports and I wish the country emulate the same,” he said.
The president said government was ready to work with companies and organisations willing to support sports development.
“If companies wish to support sports development, they can approach us so that we work together for the benefit of our athletes,” said Chakwera.
In his remarks, Board Chairperson for Tauka Athletic Club, Mzee Makawa thanked participants who took part in the event.
“As Tauka Athletic Club, we are grateful for the support that we have received so far and we believe our target of raising K300 million will materialise,” said Makawa.
The relay race started on Wednesday in Blantyre and ended Thursday in Lilongwe after athletes completed a 19-hour run.
President Chakwera joined the race at Area 18 Interchange and went all the way to the World War 1 Memorial Tower.
