The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has increased financial support for FDH Premiership clubs from K20 million to K35 million each, signaling a renewed push to professionalize the domestic game ahead of the 2026 season.
The announcement was made by Football Association of Malawi president Fleetwood Haiya during the Super League of Malawi Annual General Meeting in Salima, where stakeholders reviewed the past campaign and mapped the way forward for the elite competition.
Haiya said the increment reflects rising operational costs and FAM’s commitment to improving player welfare and club administration standards.
“We want our players to be well looked after, and we want clubs to operate professionally,” he said, adding that financial stability is central to strengthening governance and competitiveness in the league.
The FAM president commended the Super League of Malawi (SULOM) for what he described as marked administrative improvements and strides in commercialising the league.
He noted that the AGM went beyond a constitutional formality, tackling governance, structural alignment, and long-term reforms.
Haiya expressed confidence in newly promoted sides, Red Lions, Baka City, and Mitundu Baptist, who became the first clubs to graduate from the National Division League into the top flight. He said their promotion demonstrates progress in the country’s league development pathway.
On infrastructure, FAM disclosed that it is engaging government and facility owners to upgrade match venues and accelerate the completion of Zomba Stadium in time for use next season. Clubs have also been urged to formally identify and communicate their home venues before the campaign kicks off.
The 2026 season will begin on April 18 with the Charity Shield, while FAM confirmed that from the 2027/28 season, the domestic calendar will shift to an August start to align with regional and international competitions.
FAM further announced plans to provide specialised training for club physical fitness trainers and to work with SULOM and other member associations on standardisation measures aligned with international best practice.
SULOM president Gilbert Mitawa described the Salima meeting as one of the most progressive in recent years, highlighting candid deliberations on governance and strategic direction.
He clarified that revenue from FIFA+ live streaming was initially structured as a three-year investment phase, with returns expected as the arrangement enters a new cycle.
Mitawa also dismissed speculation of conflict of interest in league naming structures, explaining that current discussions centre on harmonising competition tiers to ensure alignment across the football pyramid.
As Malawian football prepares for a new season, both FAM and SULOM insist the focus is on reform, commercial growth, and calendar harmonisation, moves they believe will position the Super League on a stronger professional footing.
