Govt pledges support to Malawi Netball as team left for South Africa

Malawi’s Youth and Sports Minister Enoch Chihana on Monday pledged that the Joyce Banda administration will organise as much friendly games as possible for the Malawi Queens.

Chihana said this at Capital Hill where he had an audience with the Queens before they left for the Diamond Challenge in South Africa.

“Government is committed to support the team to achieve its objectives and one way of doing that is by organising friendly games to keep the team active,” said Chihana.

He also said it is every Malawian’s wish, including himself, to see the Queens move from fifth position to second in the world.

“I urge you to work hard and take these games seriously so that you defend your African Championship and to excel at the World Netball Series. I, therefore, wish the team all the best as they travel to South Africa and as you take part in the tournament,” said the minister.

Chihana said the games will also strengthen the relationship between the countries participating and also promote the development of the game in South Africa.

Botswana, Zambia and hosts South Africa will take part in the tournament that starts tomorrow.

Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) president Rosy Chinunda thanked Chihana, saying government’s pledge was a great motivation to the players.

“We feel both honoured and humbled that the minister has taken it upon himself to give the players a great send off. It is a great inspiration and I am sure the players will do well,” said Chinunda.

Queens coach Griffin Saenda assured the nation that they will do well in South Africa.

“We know the importance of this tournament and we are not taking it easy. We have done thorough preparations and we are confident we are going to do well,” said Saenda.