Rugby Academy born in Ekwendeni

Ekaiweni Tafika Youth organisation has opened a Rugby Academy at Ekwendeni Township in Mzimba, the first of its kind in the Northern Region.

Briefing the media on Wednesday, the organisation’s director, Shupo Kumwenda ,said the initiative is part of their behaviour change project.

Shupo said they want to use rugby to advance positive change among the youth.

Meanwhile, the organisation has received rugby equipment worth K2 million from Scotland rugby coach Nigel Mina for the academy’s operations.

Kumwenda said three teams have already been formed at the academy for Under-10, 14 and seniors for both girls and boys.

“We are in partnership with Scotland rugby coach who will be assisting us with all the materials over a period. Good players will be produced at the academy that can do the nation proud in international rugby tournaments,” he said.

Regional sports officer for the North, Georgina Msowoya, commended the organisation for establishing the academy.

“Rugby is a unique sport that many youths can play. We commend the organisation for establishing the academy that will assist in increasing the number of rugby players for the country,” she said.

Rugby Football Union of Malawi president Augustine Banda asked the academy officials to seek technical support from the union to promote the sport from grassroots. n