The Netball Association of Malawi (Nam) Executive Committee has stepped down with immediate effect after coming under fire from concerned affiliates.
In a letter, dated May 30 2024, addressed to Malawi National Council of Sports Chief Executive Officer Henry Kamata, the Nam executive says it has opted to pave the way for others following growing concerns from affiliates and the netball fraternity at large.
“The Netball Association of Malawi Executive Committee, having critically considered the concerns from concerned members and acting in good faith for the sake of netball, has decided to step down from office with immediate effect.
“This will allow for a new team to step in and manage the game,” the letter reads.
The outgoing committee has promised to be available for smooth transition.
“In order to manage the smooth transition, we pledge our commitment and availability to assist on any issue that may require our attention,” the letter states.
President Abigail Shariff, Vice President Junier Bamusi, General Secretary Isaac Chimwala, Vice General Secretary Diana Nkhulembe, Treasurer Agnes Chaima and Vice Treasurer Chauncy Munthali have all signed the letter.
Kamata confirmed receiving the resignation letter and pledged to help manage the situation to avoid creating a huge gap that could dent the image of the sport.
“We have received the letter. Our mandate is to regulate all forms of sport in the country and, accordingly, we will ensure that the transition is managed in a manner that does not disrupt the activities of netball in the country,” Kamata said.
The development comes after Nam had indicated that it would hold its annual general meeting (AGM) on June 22 at Mzuzu Hotel.
In view of this, Kamata said they would support the association to rebuild.
“Nam had earlier communicated on the issue of AGM, where they were expected to table and address issues that were raised by their affiliates—regional, district and technical committees—and we think they will also handle the issue of a new team to lead the netball family.
“We, as council, will provide the necessary financial and technical support if called upon because netball is a sport brand that all Malawians are proud of,” Kamata said.
On April 20, concerned Nam affiliates asked the association’s executive to call for an AGM within 14 days to address flaws haunting the game in the country.
“We pen this letter with a heavy heart, fueled by the collective disappointment of netball enthusiasts across our nation. As the concerned district netball chairpersons and other netball community [members], we express our profound dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs under your leadership.
“The promises made during your campaign were mere words; they were a beacon of hope for our beloved sport. Regrettably these promises remain unfulfilled, casting a shadow over the integrity of our association,” the petition read.
“The promise to secure additional sponsors for our netball league across the nation remains unfulfilled…,” they wrote.
One of the affiliates, Steve Nyadira, said they are waiting for communication from council.
