By Vinjeru Ngwira
Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba, has voiced strong concern over the continued neglect of sports development in Malawi’s northern region.
Speaking at a ceremony held in Mzuzu, Mumba expressed disappointment with companies that have consistently overlooked the north when offering sponsorships for sporting activities.
The event marked the official signing of a K75 million sponsorship package dedicated to the Northern Region Netball League, a move that aims to revitalize sports in the area.
Mumba lamented that for many years, the region has struggled to progress in sports due to lack of financial support and corporate involvement.
He urged companies to end their selective approach in sponsorships and instead embrace inclusivity, supporting talent from all corners of the country.
“Sports have the power to unite and uplift communities. It’s time to stop the bias,” Mumba emphasized during his address.
The newly announced sponsorship, which is Mumba’s own initiative, will run for three years, providing MK25 million annually to the league.
With this gesture, Mumba hopes to close a 20-year gap during which the region operated without consistent sports sponsorship.
