Football Association of Malawi (Fam) and Football Legends Association (FLA) have said the departed former Malawi National Football Team striker Esau ‘Black Mamba’ Kanyenda was more than just a footballer.
The two bodies have hailed Kanyenda through a joint statement released on Saturday ahead of his burial in Manchester, England, on Wednesday.
“Though he has departed, his legacy will forever live in our hearts, our stadiums and our history. Malawi has lost a son. Football has lost a legend but history has gained an immortal name. The late Kanyenda, a towering figure and true icon of Malawian football, passed away on 2 December 2025 in the United Kingdom, leaving behind a legacy that transcends generations,” the statement reads.
Fam and FLA said arrangements are in place to broadcast live and stream the burial ceremony on Wednesday from 2pm Malawian time.
“In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Malawian football and as a mark of honour and respect for Kanyenda, Fam and FLA have ensured that the burial ceremony will be made accessible to the public through live broadcast on traditional media and online streaming platforms.
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“Members of the general public are encouraged to gather at the Bingu National Stadium [BNS] where the main live streaming event will be held. Those who are unable to attend the event physically at BNS are encouraged to follow the burial ceremony through the other platforms,” the statement reads in part.
The two bodies then extended their sympathies and condolences to the Kanyenda family, his friends, former teammates and the entire football fraternity.
Kanyenda family spokesperson Simeon Kanyenda Mwale said they were grateful to Fam and FLA for acknowledging the star striker’s contribution to Malawi football.
“FLA acknowledged that late Kanyenda was one of its active members. So, we appreciate all the support we are receiving. We are looking forward to a decent burial for Kanyenda, who was more than just our relation. He was a national asset who wrote his name in the football history book.
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“We commend FLA leadership for coordinating various activities to do with the burial ceremony. FLA has been working hand-in-hand with Fam and other stakeholders in ensuring that our late relation is accorded a decent burial. We are fully aware of the arrangement to livestream the burial on various media platforms and we are very grateful,” Kanyenda Mwale said.
