Government has pledged to support the ‘Knockout Malaria’ initiative because it is addressing issues of national importance.
Minister of Health Jean Kalilani and her Youth Development and Sports colleague Grace Chiumia made the commitment on Friday at Golden Peacock in Lilongwe where No Pain No Gain Boxing Promotions unveiled international belts for the bouts set for September 26 in Lilongwe.
Kalilani said despite efforts by government to eradicate malaria, the disease remains a major health problem in the country with 7 200 cases per day.
“I take this opportunity to sincerely thank the support from the private sector especially ‘the knockout Malawi boxers for the great cause’ initiative. We would like to ask other partners in the private sector to emulate the gesture done by No Pain No Gain Boxing Promotions,” she said.
On her part, Chiumia said if the September 26 bill was implemented according to plan it will boost the game of boxing in Malawi.
“Let me also request the boxing fraternity to ensure that this programme is properly organised and supported. It is also pleasing to note that the tournament will help in the fight against Malaria under the theme of ‘Knockout malaria Malawi’,” she said.
No Pain No Gain Boxing Promotions managing director Craig Rousseau said they were determined to give back to the community.
“It’s a fact that Malaria is killing a lot of people and we want to use boxing to knockout the disease” he said.
Meanwhile, the stable used the colourful function to unveil the pairing.
Local featherweight champion Wilson Masamba will face Brazilian Cid Edson Bispo Ribeiro for the vacant World Boxing Union (WBU) title.
In the supporting fight, CharlesMisanjo will take on Maobi Mothiba of Botswana.
