Malawi FA Chief Haiya banks on new COSAFA leadership in football development acceleration

By Edwin Mbewe

HARARE-(MaraviPost)-The President of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM), Fleetwood Haiya, has expressed confidence that the newly elected leadership of the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) will accelerate football development across the region.

Haiya made the remarks following the successful COSAFA Electoral General Assembly held in Zimbabwe on Sunday, which ushered in a new executive team to oversee the affairs of the regional football governing body for the next term.

President of the Botswana Football Association, Tariq Babitseng, was elected COSAFA President, while Alfred Randriamanampisoa of Madagascar was elected Vice President.

The newly elected Executive Committee members are Brenda Kunda of the Football Association of Zambia, Lijane Nthunya of the Lesotho Football Association, Nqobile Magwizi of the Zimbabwe Football Association, Robert Shimooshili of the Namibia Football Association, and Peter Simelane of Eswatini.

In a statement released after the elections, Haiya congratulated the new leadership and wished them success as they take up the responsibility of advancing football development within Southern Africa.

“I wish the newly elected leadership all the very best as together we continue working towards transforming COSAFA and advancing football within our region,” said Haiya.

He also paid tribute to the outgoing Executive Committee for their dedication and contribution to the growth and stability of COSAFA during their tenure.

Haiya further expressed gratitude after being unanimously endorsed by COSAFA Presidents to represent the region at continental level as COSAFA’s candidate for the position of CAF Executive Committee member during the forthcoming CAF elections scheduled for early 2027.

“I am equally humbled and honoured by the unanimous endorsement and trust bestowed upon me by all COSAFA Presidents,” he said.

The FAM President described the endorsement as a strong demonstration of unity within the regional football body and thanked COSAFA leadership for the confidence shown in him.

Haiya also reserved special praise for outgoing COSAFA President Saïd Ali Saïd Athouman for his leadership and contribution towards building what he described as a united and progressive COSAFA family.

“Together, we move forward stronger,” concluded Haiya.

Maravi Post Reporter

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