The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has urged the corporate sector to support its grassroots football development initiatives, following the establishment of the Luwinga Inclusive Academy in Mzuzu.

FAM President Fleetwood Haiya emphasized that the future of Malawian football depends on early investment in young talent, and highlighted the academy as a crucial platform for nurturing future stars.

“For football in Malawi to reach the highest level, we must invest in developing players from a young age. That journey begins at the grassroots,” said Haiya.

Located in Mzuzu, the academy currently trains 42 youngsters—15 girls and 27 boys, who are already being groomed for potential national team duties. The academy takes an inclusive approach, ensuring both boys and girls have equal access to training opportunities while attending school.

Into Sports Steps In

Local sportswear supplier Into Sports has become one of the first companies to back the initiative, donating training attire to support the young athletes.

FAM is now calling on more corporate players to join the effort—through sponsorships, equipment donations, or partnerships that can help sustain and grow grassroots programs like Luwinga.

“We’re laying a foundation for the future. But we can’t do it alone. We need the support of the business community to ensure these kids have the resources and opportunities they deserve,” added Haiya.

The Luwinga Inclusive Academy is part of FAM’s broader strategy to strengthen the football development pipeline nationwide by starting from the grassroots level.