National Sports

Govt raises hope for U-20 and Flames trips

Government said it might consider extra funding for the Under-20 national team participation at the Cosafa games in Lesotho and also the Flames trip to Cecafa in December.

Reappointed Sports Minister Enoch Chihana said despite government stand against extra funding, there is room for special cases.

The Under-20 are scheduled to take part in the Cosafa tournament which starts on December 4 in Lesotho, but their participation has been under threat following government’s earlier decision against extra funding.

“We are committed to sponsoring our national teams. In regard to the Under-20 participation in Lesotho and also the senior team trip to Kenya, government might make special concessions after further talks with Sports Council and FAM,” said Chihana.

His comments have coincided with rumours on social networks that a major opposition party (name withheld) was planning to fund Flames’ assignments.

Reacting to this news, Chihana said national teams activities are the responsibility of government.

“Of course, we welcome partnerships from other players, but we just do not want people to politicise the national team,” said Chihana.

Meanwhile, it is a race against time for the Under-20. Although they are registered for the tournament, delay in confirming participation will mean Malawi will be replaced by Kenya who will go there as guests, according to FAM.

FAM second vice-president Pikawo Ngalamila said  continued participation of the youth teams in regional and continental tournaments is important for the success of the senior team.

“The young players get exposure and can easily fit into the national team. We welcome government decision to consider these assignments as special cases,” said Ngalamila.

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