By Vinjeru Ngwira
Kukoma Diamonds Babies delivered a sensational performance, overwhelming Giants Reserves 36-16 to lift the Mukuru Under-21 National Netball Cup Southern Region Playoffs at Blantyre Sports Arena.
The emphatic victory not only secured the Southern Region title but also guaranteed the team a coveted spot in the national finals, where Malawi’s most talented young netballers will compete for top honors.
Diamonds Babies team manager, Lucy Vinkhumbo, praised her squad’s spirited display. “Winning the playoff and qualifying for the national finals is a tremendous achievement. Our next focus is to intensify preparations for the national stage,” she said.
Despite their loss in the final, Giants Reserves also booked their place in the national finals. They will be joined by Tigresses Cubs, who narrowly defeated Chilimba Sisters 29-27 in a thrilling contest to secure third place.
Sellah Ligowe Mwafulirwa, team manager of Kukoma Diamonds Babies, said the victory has boosted the girls’ confidence and determination. “This win has given the team courage and belief that they can perform at the national level. The girls now need to work even harder to claim the national cup in Lilongwe,” she said.
Southern Region Netball Committee chairperson, Olive Msungama, applauded the standard and competitiveness of the two-day tournament, which featured eight strong teams. “I am delighted by the quality of play throughout the competition. I am confident that our representatives will shine at the national finals,” she said.
Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) President, Vitumbiko Gubuduza, emphasized the tournament’s role in developing future national team stars. “This competition is a crucial platform for identifying and nurturing talent, which will strengthen Malawi’s national team in the years to come,” she remarked.
Francis Taulo, Mukuru Money Transfer Malawi regional sales manager (South), reaffirmed the sponsor’s commitment to supporting grassroots sports. “We are impressed with the organisation of the playoffs and are excited to continue backing emerging talent across the country,” he said.
With the Southern Region finalists confirmed, attention now shifts to the remaining regional playoffs, including the Eastern Region, as anticipation builds ahead of the national finals.