Six Malawian Spellers set to depart for Zimbabwe: Old Mutual in colorful send off
Published on March 17, 2026 at 10:05 PM by Robert Ngwira
All is set for six Malawian spellers to travel to Harare, Zimbabwe for this year’s African Spelling Bee competition following a MK5 million sponsorship from Old Mutual Malawi Limited.
Last year spellers failed to travel to Nigeria for the same competition due to financial hiccups.
Speaking at the send-off ceremony at Amaryllis Hotel in Blantyre Old Mutual Investment Group Head of Operations Brenda Fachi Mwale said the company decided to sponsor the trip because it aligns well with the company’s philosophy.
“At Old Mutual, we believe that one of the greatest investment any society can make is in its young people — in their dreams, in their confidence, and in the fire that drives them to thrive. And today, that fire is shining brightly through each of our spellers.
“We are very excited for the team traveling to Zimbabwe, we wish you the very best,” said Mwale.
Turning to the spellers, Mwale urged them to believe in themselves.
“As you prepare to represent Malawi at the African Spelling Bee, carry this truth with you:You are capable.You belong on that stage.Go with confidence.
Go with purpose.Go with the strength and prayers of everyone who has cheered you on.
“You are not going there just to participate — you are going there to thrive, to inspire, and to show Africa what Malawian brilliance looks like,” she said.
Malawi National Spelling Bee Director of Operations Andrew Chikho described the competition as one of Africa’s most important educational platforms, bringing together learners from about 27 countries.
He then hailed Old Mutual for the timely sponsorship.
One of the spellers Melville Kajasiche could not hide her excitement for the trip to Zimbabwe to represent Malawi.
The six spellers will depart the country on Wednesday by road and they will be in Zimbabwe for three days.
