The Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) expects to save at least K75 million annually in accommodation costs following the unveiling of the Queens House, a new training and accommodation facility for the country’s national netball teams.
The facility, provided by NAM’s corporate partner One NICO, will serve as a permanent camping base for the Malawi Queens, Under-21 side and the men’s national team, ending years of costly relocations between training camps.
Located in Namiwawa, Blantyre, on a 5.6-hectare property leased for three years, the Queens House features athlete support amenities including a physiotherapy room, recovery area, ice-bath section and meeting facilities.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, NAM President Vitumbiko Gubuduza said the facility would significantly reduce the association’s operational costs while providing athletes with a stable environment to prepare for international competitions.
“Our projections show that we will save at least K75 million annually from five training camps alone. Previously, we spent a minimum of K25 million per camp over a 21-day period, and costs increased depending on squad size,” she said.
Gubuduza added that the facility would also be used as a revenue-generating asset, with other sports teams and organisations able to hire the premises when not occupied by national netball teams.
One NICO Group, through Eris Properties, facilitated the project after identifying the need for a permanent home for Malawi’s national netball teams.
Eris Properties Chief Executive Officer Washington Chimuzu described the development as the fulfilment of a long-held vision aimed at reducing the logistical and financial challenges associated with hosting training camps.
“The Queens now have a place they can call home. This facility will not only benefit the national netball teams but also other sporting disciplines that may require accommodation and training space,” said Chimuzu.
Malawi National Council of Sports Chief Executive Officer Ivy Chinangwa hailed the development as a landmark achievement, saying it marked a significant step in sports infrastructure development.
She said the council was considering supporting the construction of a netball court at the site to further cut training costs and enhance athlete development.
Africa Netball Secretary General Khungekile Madise Matiya also welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major boost for athlete welfare and performance.
The Malawi Queens, currently ranked ninth in the world, are expected to use the facility as their primary preparation base for upcoming international competitions.
