African Netball President Rebecca Gaogoses has hailed the continent’s flagship tournament in Malawi as reaching a new level of competitiveness, even as it enters its final three days.
Speaking on the sidelines, Gaogoses praised the intensity on court, noting the unpredictability that has defined the event.
Tuesday’s Namibia, Kenya clash, she said, was a prime example:
“Many underestimated Kenya, but they pushed Namibia to a hard-earned draw,” she remarked.
Despite the excitement, Gaogoses voiced concern over the limited number of participating nations. “Africa is home to more than 50 countries,” she said.
“If we hope to increase our presence on the global stage, governments and sports ministries must invest in netball, both men’s and women’s. How can Africa demand more World Cup slots when so few governments support participation in continental competitions?”Gaogoses, however, commended the organization and quality of play at this year’s event.
“Any issues have been manageable, and African netball leadership is extremely satisfied with how Malawi has handled the tournament,” she said, noting that hosting standards continue to rise across the continent.
The president also stressed the importance of rotating hosting responsibilities.
Kenya, which volunteered at the last AGM, is slated to host next year, but Gaogoses said the country’s facilities will undergo formal inspection.
Should they fall short, hosting rights will be reassigned to ensure all African nations eventually have the opportunity to stage the tournament.
“Home tournaments allow fans to watch their national teams live rather than only on television,” she added.
Local organizing committee chairperson Limbani Matola said the tournament has exceeded expectations despite early budget concerns.
Corporate partners stepped in to support the event, and local fans have packed venues with enthusiasm. “So far, so good,” Matola said, adding that the smooth execution has drawn praise from multiple African netball delegations.
On the court, the tournament standings reflect the competitiveness Gaogoses highlighted.
In the women’s division, South Africa and Uganda lead their pools, while Malawi, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Namibia remain locked in tightly contested battles for playoff positions.
In the men’s category, South Africa and Eswatini top their pools, but the race remains wide open as Zimbabwe, Uganda, Malawi, Kenya, and Botswana vie for advancement.
