The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has quietly stopped funding medical cover for Super League players, a decision that has left clubs and players stranded and disappointed.

The development marks a sharp turn from the 2022 agreement struck under former FAM president Walter Nyamilandu. The 10-year partnership, involving FAM, the Medical Association of Malawi (MASM), the Super League of Malawi (SULOM), and players, ensured that FAM would pay an annual MWK9 million (around $5,000) to MASM for player medical expenses — with clubs and players contributing nothing.

Three years on, FAM has withdrawn its contributions without issuing a formal announcement. As a result, injured players have been turned away from hospitals due to unpaid accounts.

“I got the news from players that they are being sent back from the hospital,” said one club official. “At first I thought FAM made a delay in making the payment but later I realised that they stopped. This happened last year. We tried to contact FAM, but they kept telling us that the matter will be resolved as soon as possible.”

Players confirm being sent back

Players, too, have voiced frustration. “I was ashamed when I was sent back,” said one. “That time I had a minor injury, and visited the hospital but I was told that my account has not been paid. I returned home and later reported to our team manager who promised to take the matter to officials.”

Efforts to reach FAM General Secretary Alfred Gunda were unsuccessful as his phone went unanswered.

However, FAM’s competitions and communications director, Gomezgani Zakazaka, confirmed the suspension, saying it was intended to allow for a review of the deal with Masm and the clubs.

“We noted that some teams have their own schemes, a thing we need to review, otherwise we are committed to take care of our players,” Zakazaka said.

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