Flames uniform design changed
Football Association of Malawi (FAM) says it has made changes to the Flames new kit design.
The Flames unveiled their new kit supplied by South Africa-based International Sports Apparel Design Institute (Isad) at the Cosafa Cup in the rainbow nation in June this year.
Responding to a question on what was delaying the launch of the new kit and replicas, FAM president Walter Nyamilandu yesterday said: “Following the trial of the kit at the Cosafa tournament, we received useful feedback on the design and we had to make minor changes.
“There was overwhelming response on the design with lots of people wanting to purchase the replica jerseys immediately.”
He said after making the alterations, they have now gone into production with priority being the sets of uniforms “and, thereafter, the jerseys”.
“Delivery is expected to be made end of August with the official launch to follow thereafter,” he said.
Nyamilandu said FAM will launch the jerseys and various sportswear in its brand name called ‘Moto’.
Asked on the cost implications of the move, Nyamilandu said: “The uniforms that were used at the Cosafa tournament were specifically for trial purposes.”
In January this year, the FAM boss confirmed signing a three-year deal with Isadi and that the launch of both the new kit and apparel was scheduled to be held in April.
He also said: “An order of the consignment is being processed, as we speak, for production to start in earnest in Japan and I have no doubt that most Malawians will find it appealing.”
Asked then on the difference between the new deal and the previous ones such as Adidas, Puma and Umbro which did not meet expectations, the FAM president said: “We will produce both low and high spec replicas targeting the masses as well as the up-market respectively, without compromising quality or security features of the jersey.
“It is a far much better deal and significant improvements from past contracts.”
Isad owner Kagisho Dikgacio, a former South Africa national team and English side Fulham’s midfielder, could not be reached for comment yesterday.
But soccer analyst George Kaudza Masina, who is also a marketer, said FAM had made the right decision to ensure that the kit and apparel should be accepted by many.
“Of course it is something they should have done earlier, but better late than never. As long as they come up with a design that reflects the national team as is the case in other countries,” he said.
