By: Edwin Mbewe
Mchinji – (MaraviPost):In a historic development aimed at aligning Malawian football with other African powerhouses such as Zambia and South Africa, the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) on Saturday, May 24, 2025, officially launched the country’s first-ever National Division League. The event took place at Mchinji Community Ground.
Speaking at the launch, FAM President Fleetwood Haiya expressed optimism about the league’s potential to enhance football development in Malawi and increase competitiveness across all levels of the sport.
“It’s another milestone. We promised to introduce another tier to ensure competitiveness in the elite league, and we believe the National Division League is the perfect solution,” Haiya said. “As FAM, we’ve achieved something we’ve long dreamed of. This league will unearth hidden talent from regions and districts across the country.”
He added that the matches will enjoy television coverage, which will offer greater visibility and opportunities for players to be scouted by elite league teams and top clubs.
“The games will be beamed on TV, and with such exposure, we expect to discover more talent and give more players a chance to advance to higher levels,” Haiya emphasized.
The FAM President also announced a significant increase in subventions for participating teams. Initially set at K7.5 million, the amount has been doubled to K15 million per team—higher than the funding currently received by Super League teams.
NBS Bank’s Chief Retail Banking Officer, Victoria Chanza, expressed satisfaction with the league’s kickoff and reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to the partnership.
“As sponsors, we are delighted with the league’s launch. What started as a simple idea has become a reality. Football is loved by many Malawians, and as a caring bank, this is part of our financial inclusion strategy,” said Chanza. “This initiative helps us connect with people while expanding our market base.”
The launch ceremony featured a thrilling match where Mitundu Baptist, who finished third in the 2024 Central Region Chipiku Premier Division League, thrashed runners-up Mchinji Villa 4-0.
Josophat Kwalira opened the scoring in the 15th minute before Rahim Mtondera stole the show with a hat-trick, scoring in the 20th, 28th, and 30th minutes. Mtondera was later named Player of the Match.
The inaugural K320 million NBS Bank National Division League features 12 teams: nine regional league champions and three relegated Super League teams. At the end of the season, the top three teams will earn promotion to the elite league.
The participating teams are:
Central Region: Mitundu Baptist FC, Mchinji Villa, Namitete Zitha
Northern Region: Jenda United, Baka City, Chirumba Barracks, Chintheche United
Southern Region: Bangwe All Stars, Ntaja United, FOMO FC, Red Lions, Ndilande Stars
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