After 19 Years, Nyamilandu Bids Farewell to FAM
After nearly two decades guiding Malawian soccer, Nyamilandu leaves big shoes to fill.
BLANTYRE, Malawi — Walter Nyamilandu Manda bid farewell as president of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) on Monday after leading the organization for 19 years, writes Vincent Gunde.
In a statement, Nyamilandu thanked Malawians for their support during his tenure, which he said "brought joy and pride to the nation" through various accomplishments.
"In all things, we give thanks to God," Nyamilandu wrote. "The old has gone, the new is here."
Nyamilandu congratulated president-elect Fleetwood Haiya and his incoming executive committee, wishing them success going forward.
Football analyst Rick Dzida acknowledged ups and downs under Nyamilandu but said "on average, Nyamilandu's regime registered some milestones worth acknowledging."
Dzida also congratulated Haiya and new second vice president Dr. Lamerk Khonje.
Others suggested it was simply time for new leadership. Kenyan professor Patrick Lumumba said, "No matter how good you are, if you stay for too long, you spoil it. A good dancer knows when to leave the stage."
After nearly two decades guiding Malawian soccer, Nyamilandu leaves big shoes to fill.
But many welcomed the changing of the guard as an opportunity for fresh ideas.