As part of efforts to promote physical fitness, teamwork and unity within the ranks, the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) has brought together soldiers from across the country for its Annual Sports Festival currently underway in Salima.
The week-long event, taking place at the Malawi Armed Forces College (MAFCO), began on Monday and has attracted participants from various MDF units competing in a wide range of sporting disciplines aimed at enhancing morale and strengthening camaraderie.
The festival features football, netball, volleyball, basketball, athletics, boxing, chess, table football and, for the first time, golf.
One of the event’s sponsors, National Bank of Malawi plc, has contributed K5.5 million towards the hosting of the festival.
Speaking after presenting the cheque on behalf of the bank, Salima Service Centre Manager Mclean Banda said the support reflects the institution’s appreciation of the role the MDF plays in maintaining peace and security in the country.
“As a key arm of government, the MDF plays an important role in maintaining national security. We are proud to support initiatives that promote the physical well-being of its personnel, while also providing entertainment through sport,” said Banda.
He added that the MDF remains one of the bank’s valued customer segments, making the sponsorship part of the bank’s broader corporate social responsibility efforts.
During the official opening ceremony, Chief of Defence Force George Alexander Jaffu commended sponsors for supporting the successful hosting of the event.
Meanwhile, MDF Chief of Training Brigadier General John Isaac Maseko described the sports festival as an important part of military training and development.
“This sports festival is part of our training philosophy. It enhances physical fitness, sharpens mental alertness, and fosters unity among personnel as they interact and build a good relationship among themselves,” said Maseko.
