LILONGWE – The Griffin Saenda Sports Complex in Lilongwe is set to transform into a vibrant hub of continental sporting excellence as the 2025 Netball Africa Cup officially gets underway today.
Running until 14 December, the tournament brings together nine nations: hosts Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania, Eswatini and Botswana, with female and male teams vying for dominance on the court.
For fans across Africa, the stage is set for thrilling match-ups, renewed rivalries and the emergence of new stars as the continent’s best netballers battle for the prestigious title.
The opening fixtures promise intensity, and Namibia’s DebMarine Desert Jewels will be among the first to showcase their readiness. The Namibian side opens their campaign against Zimbabwe at 11h00 today, a clash expected to set the tone for their performance throughout the competition.
On Wednesday, the Desert Jewels return to the court for a crucial tie against Kenya at 14h00, before attention shifts to Thursday’s clash against Uganda at 18h00.
Acting president of Arica Netball, Rebecca /Goagoses, expressed optimism and pride as she reflected on the significance of this year’s event.
“The continent is ready to host this spectacular Cup,” she said. “The tournament was last played in Namibia in 2024, and we are hoping that Malawi can deliver an even better event this year. We experienced some challenges ourselves when hosting, but we take these challenges in stride. They are part of the growth process.”
/Goagoses further emphasised the importance of unity and support during the competition.
“We are asking everyone to come through and watch the matches. This is the time for Africa to shine. Let’s come together and support one another,” she urged.
She also extended gratitude to the government of Malawi for stepping in to ensure the event’s success, while highlighting the need for improved infrastructure across the continent.
“This is a great facility, and we need more venues like this in Africa so that we can host teams from nations such as Scotland, New Zealand and Jamaica. The more we invest in facilities, the more competitive African netball will become globally.”
President of the Netball Association of Malawi, Vitumbiko Gubuduza, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the Local Organising Committee has been working tirelessly behind the scenes.
“We met about three months ago, and it has been intense,” she said. “We have partners such as Sunbird, and everything is coming together. We’re excited to see how the next seven days unfold. We took our time to get the court and floor ready. There were funding concerns as the facility has not yet been officially handed over to the government, but everything is now falling into place.”
Gubuduza added that players were already arriving early in the morning to test the freshly prepared court in anticipation of the opening matches.
As the tournament kicks off, fans in Lilongwe and across the continent look forward to a week of electrifying action, national pride and unforgettable netball moments.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na