‘Partial ban’

Malawi National Council of Sports (MNCS) has announced the suspension of all formal sports activities following President Lazarus Chakwera’s declaration of state of disaster and a 14-day mourning period.

However, all planned sports activities at the weekend went ahead but without spectators. The friendly match between FCB Nyasa Bullets and Kamuzu Barracks which ended in a 1-1 stalemate at Civo Stadium was played behind closed doors.

As a mark of respect, KB players wore black arm bands. Three matches in the Fam National Women’s championship also went ahead but without spectators.

Sports Council Chairperson Sunduzwayo Madise said the sports implementing agency will consult government on when sporting activities will resume. “We know that there is an international match between Malawi and Egypt. This is a Fifa sanctioned match so we are aware of it,’’ Madise said.

On Friday night, Sports Council through a statement asked all affiliated sports associations and their organs to immediate notice of the suspension.

“Sports Council shall inform sports associations and the nation when formal sporting activities may resume,’’ reads part of the statement.

Fam Commercial Director Limbani Matola said he was confident that government will allow fans to watch the match. Advance ticket sales for the match has already started.

Sports analyst Parry Chinyama said it was ideal to suspend all sports activities.

“It is ideal that we respect those we have lost during the disaster as a result of Cyclone Freddy,’’ Chinyama said.

Cyclone Freddy which has wreaked havoc in the Southern Region has killed over 300 people, with several people still missing and others injured.