Mpira Mmudzi Mwathu has taken another significant step in preparation for its end-of-year tournament scheduled for December 12-13 at Golf Club in Lilongwe.

The organization’s founder and board chairperson, Chimango Munthali, has disclosed that the tournament requires K22 million in funding, of which 80% has already been secured.

The tournament will feature 8 teams each in the under-19 and under-14 boys’ categories, 6 teams in the under-16 girls’ category, and 5 teams from Mpira Mmudzi Mwathu schools across the country, representing age groups from under-3 to under-16.

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The 80% funding milestone was reached following a partnership deal with Dulux Paint, trading under Silkon Limited, which has contributed K5 million to the tournament.

Lexah Msowoya, Commercial Director at Silkon Limited, said the company was pleased to support the event, citing the benefits of their three-year partnership.

“We are excited to be part of this as our contribution will help almost 1,000 children by keeping them busy. Some of these children do unpleasant things when they are just idle,” she said.

Msowoya also commended Mpira Mmudzi Mwathu for its work in developing youth football.

Munthali expressed gratitude for the support while emphasizing the mutual benefits of the partnership.

“We are not just begging for help, we are coming here as partners. The availability of television coverage and other media outlets will help give the sponsors exposure,” he said.

He revealed that Mpira Mmudzi Mwathu has contributed 40% of the budget, with grand partner Ebenezer providing 20% and Dulux Paint adding their portion.

Munthali appealed to individuals and the public for the remaining 20% of the budget, while expressing confidence that the tournament will proceed even if full funding is not secured.

The tournament will be broadcast live on television through a partnership with MIBAWA TV, providing exposure for players beyond Malawi’s borders.

This marks the fourth year of the end-of-year tournament, with a Blantyre-based team as the defending champions.

The partnership between Mpira Mmudzi Mwathu and Dulux Paint was formalized on January 28 this year, with Silkon Limited committing K27.5 million over three years.