By Blessings Chitekwere- Wa Mpira:
The Southern Region Football Association (SRFA) has secured a massive boost after entering into a three-year partnership with Sultan Trading, manufacturers of top-quality concrete products. The deal will see the company inject K30 million annually, bringing the total package to K90 million with a provision to renew the sponsorship at the end of each season.
The landmark agreement was officially sealed on May 16, 2025, during a ceremony held at Mpira Village in Chiwembe, Blantyre.
SRFA Chairperson Dyles Kachala hailed the partnership as a timely intervention, especially after the exit of Betika, whose one-year sponsorship wrapped up at the end of the 2024 season.
“I am very delighted as Chairperson and on behalf of SRFA for securing this sponsorship. We will jealously guard it. It is a valuable package, surpassing even all premier division leagues in the country. We simply ca not afford to lose it,” said Kachala.
Sultan Trading, known for producing cement blocks, interlocking pavers, kerb stones, and cement bricks, is stepping into football for the first time. Manager Wiseman Mnembo said the company is passionate about empowering talented youths and creating platforms that can catapult them to greater heights.
“Our company values sports. This sponsorship is our way of giving back by providing skilled young people with a better stage to showcase their talent possibly even to reach professional levels,” said Mnembo.
The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has applauded the development. Marketing and Broadcasting Manager Tulipo Mwenelupembe commended SRFA for securing a deal that outshines all other regional leagues in the country.
“I want to welcome Sultan Trading to football and express my hope that this becomes a long-term relationship. With the exposure you will get from sponsoring the SRFA Division One League through the media and growing fan base, you are bound to enjoy significant returns, including increased sales,” Mwenelupembe said.
He added that FAM will continue supporting its affiliates by facilitating capacity-building workshops aimed at attracting sustainable sponsorships.
The 2025/26 SRFA Division One season is set to kick off on Sunday, May 25, at Mchima Estate Ground with an exciting clash between hosts Mchima FC and Vincent United from Mulanje.
According to the association, partnerships like this are a big stride towards achieving their mission of engaging teams from every district in the Southern Region while nurturing grassroots football talent.
