One NICO Hands The Queens a Permanent Home

Malawi’s national netball team, the Queens, now has a permanent home in Blantyre following the launch of a fully furnished training and accommodation facility at Namiwawa, secured through a partnership between One NICO and the Netball Association of Malawi (NAM).

The house, which has been leased by One NICO for an initial period of three years with an option for extension, will serve as a base for the Queens whenever they are in camp, ending years of moving from one accommodation facility to another.

Speaking during the launch on Monday, One NICO representative Washington Chimuzu said the initiative was aimed at reducing the logistical challenges and costs associated with hosting national team camps.

“This is a home that the Queens can proudly call their own whenever they are in camp. Beyond accommodation, the facility also presents an opportunity to generate income by hosting other teams for training and camping purposes,” said Chimuzu.

NAM President Vitumbiko Gubuduza described the development as a game-changer for netball in Malawi, saying it will significantly reduce operational costs for the Queens, the Under-23 national team and the men’s national team, the Kings.

“We expect to save about K75 million annually on five camps for the Queens alone. When we factor in the Under-23 team and the Kings, the savings become even more substantial,” said Gubuduza.

He added that the facility is equipped with essential amenities, including accommodation, cooking facilities, laundry services, physiotherapy rooms and ice-bathing spaces.

“This will also become a resource mobilisation centre. When our national teams are not using it, we can make it available to clubs and other teams,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer of the Malawi National Council of Sports, Ivy Chinangwa, hailed the initiative as a landmark achievement for Malawian sport.

“History has been made. The Council will also explore the possibility of constructing a netball court at this facility since there is adequate space available,” she said.

Africa Netball Secretary General Khungikile Madise Matiya commended One NICO for supporting the growth of netball in Malawi.

“This is a very welcome development. We are excited and wish NAM every success. I believe this facility will motivate the Queens to continue performing at the highest level,” said Matiya.

The Queens, currently ranked ninth in the world, are widely regarded as one of Africa’s netball powerhouses and continue to fly Malawi’s flag on the international stage.