Nyamilandu launches fourth term manifesto
Football Association of Malawi presidential candidate Walter Nyamilandu on Saturday promised major reforms at the institution if re-elected for a fourth term.
Unveiling his manifesto under the theme “harvest time” at Crossroads Hotel in Lilongwe, Nyamilandu said the main focus of his fourth term will be commercialisation of the game, turning the Super League into a professional entity and improving players welfare.
He said his administration has already laid structures and foundation to transform the game of football, hence the next four years will be harvest time to realise goals already set.
On commercialisation, Nyamilandu mentioned maximising broadcasting rights, robust gate management system, low cost replica jersey and optimising of revenue from existing facilities.
“Discussions are at advanced level to sell rights to a local broadcaster for both radio and television for local and international games.
“Money realised will be equally shared by all stakeholders, in this way clubs will benefit and run professionally, “ said Nyamilandu addressing seven affiliates from regional sports associations, youth, women football, and beach soccer.
Nyamilandu said FAM, will launch a fully equipped Mpira Broadcasting Studio to record and edit radio and television programmes as part of commercialisation.
“In addition, we are procuring outside broadcasting vans and HD Digital camera to ensure the implementation of broadcasting venture is smooth,” he said.
He further said he plans to increase gate entry fee for Super League games to K1500 to maximise revenue.
Nyamilandu promised that Chiwembe Lodge, bar, gym and restaurant will be outsourced to enhance efficiency and professionalism to increase profits for the running of the game.
He said despite economic difficulties, revenue has considerably increased from K402 million ($679,726) in 2010 to K1.2 billion in 2015 from among other things, running of hostel, bar and gym.
Nyamilandu also plans to sell Surestream Stadium to use the money as capital to set viable businesses.
On grass roots football, Nyamilandu said: “We are embarking on an integrated youth football competitions. Fifa is currently funding the Under-15 to the tune of K30 million annually. FMB is funding Under-20. Now, what remains is the Under-17. By bridging the gap of developmental path, talented players will be given an enabling environment to realise full potential.”
He also pledged to develop beach soccer by constructing a modern venue next to the new stadium.
On players welfare Nyamilandu promised to create Player’s Welfare Fund, National Service Token, Savings and Credit Cooperative and Education and Vocational training.
“I’m not starting afresh, but continuing from the ground work we already laid down. As a former footballer, my passion is undoubted. Let common sense prevail and vote for me,” appealed Nyamilandu.
He will compete against Wilkins Mijiga and Willy Yabwanya Phiri in December 12 polls. n
