LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has appealed to the government, through the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, to recruit and fund permanent assistant coaches for the country’s national football teams.
FAM President Fleetwood Haiya made the appeal on Wednesday during a meeting with the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Alfred Gangata, shortly after the minister assumed office.
Haiya was accompanied by FAM Second Vice President Madalitso Kuyera as the football governing body sought to brief the minister on several key issues affecting the development and management of football in the country.
During the meeting, Haiya explained that most of Malawi’s national football teams currently operate without permanently appointed assistant coaches, a situation he described as a challenge to technical stability.
He said the absence of permanent deputies in the technical panels often creates uncertainty, especially when national teams are preparing for important international assignments.
Haiya also used the meeting to update the minister on the performance and operations of all national teams that fall under the management of Football Association of Malawi.
He further raised concerns over government funding allocated to FAM for the 2025–2026 financial period, revealing that some of the promised funds have not yet been received.
According to Haiya, the funding delays have affected certain administrative and technical programmes planned by the football governing body.
Despite the challenges, Haiya assured the minister that FAM remains committed to working closely with the government to improve football standards in the country.
He emphasized that cooperation between the association and government authorities is essential for the growth and success of the sport at all levels.
In response, Gangata welcomed the engagement with FAM leadership and acknowledged the importance of strong partnerships in developing national teams.
The minister assured the association that the government is ready to provide the necessary support to Malawi’s national football teams.
Gangata added that the ministry will continue engaging relevant stakeholders to address some of the challenges affecting football administration and development.
