Football Unites Community Against Elder Violence
The tournament represents a grassroots approach to addressing a complex social issue, using sports as a unifying tool for community awareness and peace.
KARONGA, Malawi — A Catholic bishop is using soccer to combat violence against elderly residents, launching a peace-focused tournament that draws attention to brutal killings often linked to witchcraft accusations, writes Lusekero Mhango.
Bishop Martin Mutumbuka of Karonga Catholic Diocese organised the MK4 million tournament to sensitise communities, particularly youth, about elder abuse.
During Sunday's tournament finals at Ngelenge Primary School grounds, Mutumbuka emphasised football's power as a community platform.
"I am very impressed and satisfied, particularly with how far our messages of peace have reached," Mutumbuka said.
"These messages are no longer confined to our churches."
The bishop announced plans to expand the tournament's budget to MK20 million, targeting youth engagement ahead of the 2025 polls.
"I don't want politicians to exploit the poverty of young people and manipulate their minds," he added.
Senior Chief Kilupula praised the initiative, encouraging other religious institutions to extend efforts beyond traditional preaching.
In the tournament's championship match, Chicago FC defeated Mulamba FC 1-0, claiming the MK900,000.
Mulamba FC received MK600,000 as runners-up.
The tournament represents a grassroots approach to addressing a complex social issue, using sports as a unifying tool for community awareness and peace.