By Wezzie Gausi:
President Lazarus Chakwera has pledged government support towards sporting initiatives in the country.
Chakwera made the pledge in Lilongwe Thursday when he participated in the last stretch of a 312-kilometre fundraising run organised by Tauka Athletics Club of Blantyre.
The 20-hour run started in Blantyre and ended in Lilongwe with the aim of raising K300 million to help the club purchase various necessities for its operations.
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Tauka wants to acquire a team bus, training kits and establish a high-performance training centre for athletes.
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Speaking at the finishing point at the Kamuzu Memorial Tower in Area 18, Chakwera commended the athletes for their determination and promoting inclusivity.
He said the presence of athletes with disabilities showed the strength of the initiative.
“A nation cannot grow without strong and healthy people. I am committed to supporting sporting activities in Malawi.
This is a good venture. I have seen athletes with disabilities taking part in the run. This must continue. My government will ensure that it does,” Chakwera said.
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Tauka chairperson Mzee Makawa described the event as historic, particularly because of the President’s direct involvement.
“We are fit to run. We have managed to run from Blantyre to Lilongwe in 20 hours. This was not only about endurance. It was about raising funds and proving that we are capable.
“We are very grateful to the Head of State for accepting our invitation to run with us. That alone is history. No president here in Malawi has ever done this before,” Makawa said.
He said the K300 million was for the first phase of a much larger project.
“The money will be used for buying land and funding the planning and design of the training centre. Our full vision will require billions of kwacha. So this is just the beginning.
“Our coach, Moses Kondowe, has already engaged architects and designs have been drafted. These were shown to the president so that he appreciates our efforts,” Makawa said.
He called on individuals, institutions and corporate players to support the initiative and help turn the dream into reality.
