Rachael Kaphaizi
The Malawi National Council of Sports (MNCS) has warned inactive sports associations that they risk being deregistered for failure to meet required standards and contribute to the development of their respective sports.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Wa Ganyu, MNCS Acting Chief Executive Officer, Ivy Chinangwa, said associations have a responsibility to organise athlete development and competitive activities, conduct annual general meetings and produce reports rather than simply relying on the Council for support.
Chinangwa said the Council has reduced the number of recognised member associations from 58 to 49 after some failed to organise events at the regional level, attend meetings, or show efforts towards grassroots athlete development.
She said some of these associations were only organising one event a year at the regional level and then becoming inactive until the following year, a situation she described as not good enough.
“Associations have a great responsibility to look for resources to develop their sport. They should not just look up to the Malawi National Council of Sports,” said Chinangwa.
Chinangwa said the Council had raised concerns with some associations two years ago over their lack of activity, which led to improvements among other national bodies.
She expressed satisfaction with some of the 49 associations currently recognised by the Council saying that they are the least carrying out activities in their regions and attending meetings.
However, Chinangwa warned that the Council will continue monitoring the associations, and those that fail to meet the required standards will also be removed.
Chinangwa also encouraged associations to use their passion for sport to seek sponsorships and support from companies, organizations, individuals and well-wishers instead of depending entirely on the Council for financial and material support.
Chinangwa said the Council’s position is aimed at ensuring that recognised associations are only those that are active and play their role in encouraging participation and developing sport in Malawi.
