Farmers World gives Flames K1m for Zambia win

Farmers World has given Flames players K1 million (about $4 000) for their victory against Zambia on July 6 2012.

According to Farmers World country operations and marketing manager Dexter Mkandawire, the gesture to reward the Flames came after Sports Minister Enoch Chihana approached them.

“When the minister approached the managing director and convinced him that Malawi will win against Zambia, the director pledged the K1 million [$4 000] and today we are presenting the cheque to the minister,” said Mkandawire during an impromptu press conference at Capital Hill on Tuesday.

The cheque presentation ceremony was attended by FAM executive secretary Suzgo Nyirenda, principal secretaries in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Alex Mseka and Justin Said, Flames coach Kinnah Phiri and technical director Jack Chamangwana.

Farmers World has also pledged a similar reward for a win over Ghana.

“This is purely to motivate the players so that they beat Ghana in Accra. This is not the first time for us to be doing this. We also partnered the Flames during the 2010 Angola finals,” said Mkandawire.

Chihana hailed Farmers Word for the gift, saying they are leading by example as a corporate entity.

“It is another great day in sports. Government cannot do everything alone to support the national team. All Malawians want the team to qualify for South Africa. To achieve this, we need collective effort. Farmers World has set an example other companies should follow,” said Chihana.

He also announced that there is a special fund to raise money for supporters to travel to Accra and to cheer the Flames.

“We appeal to individuals to donate something, even a K100 000 (about $400) so that the supporters can travel to Ghana in September. It is not only about companies, but individuals too,” said Chihana

Government is targeting K50 million (about $200 000) from the private sector to cater for the welfare of national team players as they participate in the Afcon games.