“We’re not happy either”: Haiya acknowledges Flames’ struggles, urges patience
At the Football Association of Malawi’s (FAM) Annual General Meeting in Salima district, FAM President Fleetwood Haiya admitted the Flames’ poor performance at the 2024 COSAFA Cup and said FAM shares the public’s disappointment.
He explained the team’s struggles are part of a long-term plan to prepare for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, urging patience.
Haiya said COSAFA was used to scout local talent, with key foreign-based players left out.
Despite the weak attack, he believes the team now has a strong foundation: “We are no longer rebuilding—we now have a team.”
He highlighted progress under FAM’s Transformative Strategic Plan, including major sponsorships from NBS and National Bank (K1 billion each), youth initiatives like the Luwinga Football Academy, and infrastructure projects such as the Nsanje Youth Center.
Women’s football has also seen progress, with a new policy ensuring equal bonuses and allowances across all national teams.
Haiya welcomed the government’s K1.5 billion allocation but stressed more support is needed.
He concluded by reaffirming FAM’s commitment to a 10-year roadmap focused on governance, youth development, and sustainability, calling for national unity in rebuilding Malawian football.
