By Andrew Mdzumira
Former FCB Nyasa Big Bullets chairperson Kondi Msungama has dismissed claims that he left the club with a debt of K103 million, saying the figure accumulated after his departure.
Msungama made the remarks on 20 January 2026 during an interview on the Wa Ganyu Exclusive programme. He explained that when he stepped down as chairperson, the club’s outstanding debt stood at K58 million, most of which was incurred through borrowing to purchase air tickets for a CAF competition trip to Kenya.
“I borrowed the money in good faith, with the intention of helping my team during a difficult period. However, my wife and children, who also work with me, later advised me to stop borrowing money for the club,” said Msungama.
He said that during his tenure, Big Bullets won the Carlsberg Cup, competed in the TNM Super League, and represented Malawi in CAF competitions. He added that when financial challenges intensified, he proposed restructuring measures, including releasing some players and members of the technical staff, a move that was agreed upon by other club officials.
Msungama revealed that under his leadership, the club recruited Eliah Kananji, Mavuto Lungu, Billy Tiwesa as Technical Director, and Burundian coach Ramadan Swazillimo. He noted that negotiations with Swazillimo were difficult, as the coach initially demanded a high-standard house, a vehicle, and K1 million, but compromises were reached due to the club’s financial constraints.
He further explained that disagreements over gate revenue management contributed to his decision to step down. Msungama said he advised fellow officials to stop pressuring supporters to contribute money through buckets and cartons in the stands, and instead rely on officially collected gate takings to run the club.
Msungama officially stepped down as chairperson in 2015, following advice from his mother amid growing public debate about the club’s financial challenges on the radio and in newspapers.
He expressed satisfaction with the club’s current stability, saying he is pleased that Nyasa Manufacturing Company has helped restore order at Big Bullets.
The former chairperson also urged football clubs to reduce their overreliance on sponsors, warning that sponsorship can be withdrawn at any time, as previously happened with Big Bullets. Instead, he encouraged clubs to strengthen gate revenue systems and marketing strategies.
Msungama said he currently has no interest in returning to club leadership, describing it as “thankless”, but indicated that he could consider serving at the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) in the future.
He added that his focus has shifted towards national politics, although he remains passionate about football and is willing to assist when called upon.
