The Ministry of Sports says it remains optimistic that the long-awaited Griffin Saenda Sports Complex will be completed in time to host the forthcoming Africa Netball Cup in December 2025 despite ongoing financial challenges that have stalled construction.

The contractor, China Railway 20, is yet to return to the construction site in Blantyre as the company awaits additional funding to finish the remaining works.

Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, the ministry’s spokesperson McMillan Mwale acknowledged the delays but insisted the government is taking steps to ensure the facility is ready before the continental showpiece.

“We are finalizing the necessary paperwork that will allow the contractor to come back on site,” Mwale said. “Yes, there have been challenges mainly due to financial constraints, but we are confident the project will be delivered on time.”

Mwale added that the government is committed to ensuring Malawi, which is hosting the Africa Netball Cup for the first time, has a befitting venue for the competition.

“This tournament is an opportunity to showcase our country’s sporting potential and the Griffin Saenda Sports Complex will play a central role. We are optimistic that once the contractor resumes work, the remaining tasks will be completed within the set timeframe,” he explained.

The sports complex, named after the late Griffin Saenda, one of Malawi’s most celebrated netball coaches, is expected to provide world-class facilities for both local and international competitions.

However, concerns have been growing among netball stakeholders and fans over the pace of construction. Some fear that delays could affect Malawi’s ability to host the tournament successfully.

Responding to these concerns, Mwale assured the public that the ministry is working closely with the contractor to address funding gaps and accelerate the works once construction resumes.

“The contractor has given us assurances that once mobilized back to site, they will push hard to meet the December deadline. We want Malawians to have confidence that the tournament will be hosted right here in Malawi and in a brand-new facility,” he said.

The Africa Netball Cup 2025 is expected to attract some of the continent’s top teams and will serve as a key platform to promote Malawi’s netball, where the Queens remain one of Africa’s strongest sides.