Minister pumps K1m into Mayor’s Trophy

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Kondwani Nankhumwa has pumped K1 million into the revived Blantyre City Mayor’s Trophy which is set to roll into action early October.

Nankhumwa made the contribution during the re-launch of the competition on Wednesday at Sunbird Mount Soche, where he was guest of honour.

The event was part of Blantyre City Mayor Noel Chalamanda’s initiative to woo corporate companies and individuals to contribute towards the K10.5 million budget for the contest which involves football and netball among primary schools.

“I have made the contribution to set a good example about the need for individuals and corporate companies to work together in helping the government to uplift standards of sports. Talent must be encouraged and promoted from the grassroots,” he said.

Chalamanda appreciated the minister’s support, saying it will go a long way in fulfilling their efforts to meet their budget for the competition.

The tournament was dormant for the past few years because, among other things, the city did not have elected councilors.

“We hope that more individuals and companies will follow the minister’s example by the time the competition starts early October,” he said.

According to mayor’s Trophy organising committee chairperson Mike Mambo, the contest will bring together pupils from at least 50 schools in Blantyre City.

The annual Mayor’s Trophy was established in 1968 with the purpose of developing sports in the city.

Be Forward Wanderers player Joseph Kamwendo and Mayor’s Trophy product former Malawi Queens star Mary Waya also graced the occasion. n