His Mzimba Secondary School football teammates used to call him Pindani, but the actual name of this rising Lilongwe football coach and instructor is Benjamin Kumwenda (BK). PETER KANJERE (PK) got to know more about the fresh name in the profession littered with recycled coaches.
PK: Growing up, what was your upbringing and dream career?
BK: I was brought up in a family of nine. My father Flackson Mode Kumwenda was a great goalkeeper for the Northern Region select team in early 1970’s and chairperson of Mandala Football Club at Chombe Tea Estate in Nkhata Bay. I wanted to be an accountant just like my dad, but I ended up being a teacher, the job I love much this time.
PK: You are advocating Walter Nyamilandu to stand again for the FAM presidency. What is your motivation?
BK:Nyamilandu is a charismatic leader. He is a leader with a vision and ambition and in my life that’s the leader l adore. You see a leader who is burning with success and big dreams. I like leaders who should face the storm, the brunt and take risks. Leaders who are technically good in football and not only administration, and that is what is in Walter.
PK: Why do you think there is silence and secrecy behind the whole FAM elections?
BK: I don’t know if there is secrecy or silence. Let people come out! Walter is saying he is not standing, but l wish he could rescind his decision. He should read Nehemiah chapter 4 and 5 all the verses.
PK: The country lacks coaches with solid education background and top football papers like you. Do you fancy the Flames job?
BK: Now my focus is on coaches’ development. As CAF instructor, l want to see coaches growing in football technics and tactics. No! In football coaching, the best teacher is experience. It is not about having a bachelor’s degree. The under 17, 15 national teams l can fancy those because that’s where my coaching philosophy lies.
PK: Let’s face it, isn’t your association merely there on paper?
BK: Not at all! When you see football in Malawi, it’s because the association has been linking with FAM to develop coaches’ level.
