AUSC Ministers Meet, Discuss Future of Regional Games
The ministerial meetings are held every two years with members from southern African countries.
LILONGWE, Malawi- Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo reiterated Malawi's commitment as an active member of the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5, to help improve sports in the country, writes Judgement Katika.
Speaking Thursday at the opening ceremony of the ministerial meetings running through Friday, Tembo said, “As government we are determined to harness the demographic dividend through investment in sports and providing recreation for our citizens.”
“We would like to find sustainable solutions to our problems therefore sports plays a crucial role in the transformation of our economy,” she added.
Tembo expressed gratitude to AUSC for enabling Malawi to host the 2022 Region 5 youth games in Lilongwe, fostering “lasting sports experience and friendships.”
AUSC CEO Stanley Mutoya said the meetings will address inclusivity in future games.
He noted Malawi's sports minister remains on the council as previous host.
“This is a constitutional meeting that defines the strategic direction of the region, covering policy shifts and receiving constitutional recommendations,” Mutoya said.
With the theme “Scaling up Inclusion,” Mutoya said AUSC aims to include Special Olympics and refugees so “no one is left behind.”
Outgoing council chairman and Malawi Sports Minister Uchizi Mkandawire said the meeting will decide the next host country, after intended 2024 host Mozambique withdrew, citing disasters and unrest.
Mkandawire said Namibia “seems ready to host” in 2025 but the final decision comes after the meetings.
He urged ministers to keep supporting the games and ensure athlete participation across disciplines.
Mkandawire hailed Malawi's women's football team for winning the 2023 COSAFA Cup, noting six players competed in the 2022 regional youth games, showing the potential of AUSC events.
The ministerial meetings are held every two years with members from southern African countries.