BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawian football will be well represented at the upcoming COSAFA U17 Championship in Harare Zimbabwe, which doubles as the CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) has appointed several Malawians to key administrative and officiating roles for the prestigious tournament which is scheduled to run from September 11 to 20, 2025.
Football Association of Malawi (FAM) Communications Officer, Collins Nsunza, has been entrusted with the position of Media Officer, a vital role that involves overseeing all communication and publicity matters throughout the tournament.
This appointment reflects the growing recognition of Malawi’s professionalism in football management and its increasing influence in regional football affairs.
On the technical side, James Sangala, FAM’s Technical Manager and former Flames captain, has been named to the Technical Study Group (TSG). The TSG plays a crucial role in analyzing team performances, player development, and tactical trends during the tournament.
Sangala’s appointment comes at a time when Malawi is investing heavily in youth football, particularly through programs such as the FAM Under-15 and Under-17 initiatives.
In officiating, Eness Gumbo and Samuel Fudzulani have been selected as referees for the competition. Their inclusion is a testament to the high standards of Malawi’s refereeing which has recently gained recognition at the continental level.
Meanwhile Masiya Nyasulu, the Northern Region Football Association Chairperson, will serve as a Match Commissioner, tasked with ensuring that games are managed fairly and professionally.
Football analyst Ibrahim Phiri praised the appointments, describing them as a milestone for Malawian football. He urged the appointees to work hard and maintain high levels of professionalism, noting that their performance will reflect Malawi’s football image on the regional stage.
The tournament comes at a critical time for Malawian football, as the Malawi U17 national team, fondly known as the Junior Flames is also participating with hopes of qualifying for the 2025 CAF U17 AFCON.
The team departed for Zimbabwe earlier this week, brimming with confidence after an intensive training camp at Mpira Village in Blantyre.