Lidia Netball Queens have been crowned champions of the Eastern Region Mukuru Under-21 Netball Cup after an impressive unbeaten run at the tournament held from Saturday to Sunday at Cobbe Barracks Court in Zomba.
The champions sealed the title with a victory over Prison Queens in the final, having also defeated Sparkle, Mkumba, and Youth Impact during the competition.
For winning the tournament, Lidia Netball Queens received K1 million in prize money, while runners-up Prison Queens took home K700,000.
Lidia Netball Queens, Prison Queens, and Mkumba of Mangochi District have qualified to represent the Eastern Region at the national finals, scheduled to take place at Blantyre Youth Centre in the coming days.
Speaking after the tournament, Mukuru Marketing and Partner Lead Taleetha Jussab expressed satisfaction with the successful staging of the competition, despite a lower number of participating teams compared to last year.
Jussab said Mukuru remains committed to investing in girls’ netball, noting that the sport provides young women with opportunities to stay active and focused, helping to reduce challenges such as early pregnancies and school dropout.
“Mukuru will continue supporting girls’ netball, and we urge fans and communities to encourage and support young girls in the sport,” she said.
Eastern Region Under-21 Girls Netball Vice Chairperson under the Netball Association of Malawi (NAM), Emma Chilungulo, described the tournament as a success and urged the three qualifying teams to remain focused and bring the national title to the region.
Zomba District Council Sports Officer Anthony Makhanga commended Mukuru for sponsoring the Under-21 girls’ competition, saying such initiatives are vital for nurturing young talent.
He encouraged the regional representatives to intensify their preparations for the national finals and to remain disciplined by following their coaches’ guidance.
Lidia Netball Queens coach Fosterce Mahamba praised his players for their commitment and determination throughout the tournament.
Mahamba said the team would address areas that need improvement to ensure they are fully prepared for the national finals.
