By Edwin Mbewe
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-MPICO Group of Companies, the exclusive sponsors of the Gateway Mall Central Region Netball League, have announced a significant increase in their sponsorship for the upcoming season, raising it from MK40 million last year to MK47 million.
The announcement was made today, Thursday, June 19, 2025, by MPICO’s Head of Property Services, Elliot Jambo, during a press briefing held at the Gateway Mall boardroom in Lilongwe.
“The Gateway Netball Challenge is MPICO’s powerful expression of commitment to empower young women and developing talent in Malawi through sport,” Jambo stated. “Since its inception in 2016, this initiative has become a cornerstone of our corporate social investment program. We are glad that this year, we are again investing K47 million, an increase from K40 million for last year.”
Jambo also revealed that MPICO, a member of Old Mutual (Malawi) Limited, has cumulatively invested a total of MK231 million in the league since 2016.
“This speaks volumes to the number of netball careers we have nurtured and the massive impact we have had in this sporting discipline,” Jambo added.
“Through this netball challenge, we proudly complement government efforts to advance sports development while creating safe, enabling spaces where the girl child can thrive.
“Together we have laid a strong foundation, and I have confidence that the 2025 edition will be another success story.”
Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) General Secretary Yamikani Khungwa Kauma praised MPICO for their generous decision to increase the sponsorship package.
“Your continued support and enhanced investment play a crucial role in developing Netball at the grassroots level,” Kauma said.
“With your contribution, we are able to provide players to the National teams and create a more engaging experience for the participants and spectators. We are truly grateful for your commitment to promoting community sports and empowering athletes.
“Your sponsorship not only strengthens our tournament but also supports the growth and visibility of netball in the region.”
Since MPICO began sponsoring the league in 2016, the Blue Eagles netball team has dominated the tournament, emerging as champions in every edition.
Last season, the Malawi Police Service-sponsored side received K4 million for their championship win, while Civonets pocketed K3 million as runners-up.
Notably, Blue Eagles, Civonets, Lioness, and MAFCO will not be participating in this year’s tournament as they will be competing in the FDH Bank National League.
The 2025 season is set to throw off on Saturday, June 28.
