Sports analysts have hailed Team Malawi’s performance at the Region Five Games held in Windhoek, Namibia, from July 4 to 13, where the team finished seventh out of ten participating nations and bagged 32 medals.
Although Malawi collected five fewer medals compared to the 2022 edition down from 37 to 32 the team showed notable progress by securing seven gold medals, 12 silver, and 13 bronze, with a marked increase in gold medal wins.
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy.
protected by reCAPTCHA
“The men’s team needs to be greatly applauded as well. Despite losing in the finals, they managed to get there, and I believe at least four players from that team will be scouted to play professional football in other countries,” said sports analyst Parry Chinyama.
He urged the Malawi National Council of Sports to shift from last minute preparations and instead plan well in advance, emphasizing the need to tap into the younger generation, especially in a digital era where talent also thrives in e-sports and technology based disciplines.
“We should now find kids in the age range of 13 to 14, so by the time we play in the next Region Five Games, they will be 17 or 18, giving us confidence in a strong team,” added Chinyama.
Another sports analyst, Kim Kamawu, also applauded the team’s efforts and called for deliberate efforts to support budding talent through scholarships and development programmes.
“Let’s keep these talents and provide them with scholarships so they can improve their skills and continue to represent the country,” Kamawu said.
Team Malawi’s Under-20 football squad drew particular attention, with four players making it into the COSAFA Best XI: midfielder Madalisto Safuli, winger Misheck Billiat, centre-back Precious Manjawira, and striker Mwinsho Mhango.
Mhango emerged as the tournament’s standout, clinching both the Golden Boot and the Player of the Tournament award.
Despite a dip in overall medal count, the team’s improved gold medal tally and competitive spirit especially in football have reignited hope for Malawi’s sports future.
Analysts believe the talent pool unearthed in Windhoek can form a foundation for long term growth in various sporting disciplines.
The Region Five Games continue to provide a critical platform for youth athletes across Southern Africa to showcase their skills and gain regional and international exposure.
