By Vinjeru Ngwira
NICO Group has backed the Malawi Queens to deliver a strong performance at the 2026 Africa Netball Cup in Nairobi, Kenya, with the team targeting both the continental title and qualification for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Australia.
Speaking at a press briefing in Blantyre on Sunday, NICO Group Head of Marketing and Customer Experience Taweni Gondwe Xaba said the company has confidence in the Queens and their technical preparations.
Gondwe Xaba said NICO believes the team has what it takes to produce the results Malawi is expecting from the tournament.
The Queens travelled to Nairobi on Sunday ahead of the competition, which runs from September 19 to 26. Two remaining African qualification places for the 2027 World Cup will be decided through the tournament.
Malawi, currently ranked eighth in the world, has been placed in Pool 2 alongside Uganda, Zambia, hosts Kenya and Nigeria.
Captain Lwazi acknowledged the tough challenge awaiting the team but said the Queens are determined to battle for the Africa Cup title and a World Cup place.
Coach Deborah Fuller has also reported positive preparations, confirming that the squad is in good shape and has no injury concerns. She said the players are ready to represent Malawi with pride on the continental stage.