The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has taken a major step towards reviving the CAF A Coaching License course by initiating the development of the course’s training manual.

During the weekend, FAM engaged a team of experts, including sports scientists from the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), to begin crafting the manual.

The team includes Dr. Bhekuzulu Khumalo, Oscar Kanjala, former FAM Technical Director John Kaputa, and Flames legend Peterkins Kayira.

They convened at Game Haven Lodge in Bvumbwe, Thyolo, to work collaboratively on the manual, which will be submitted to CAF for approval.

FAM Vice President Christopher Madalitso Kuyera and Chairperson for Technical subcommittee expressed confidence in the project, indicating that the manual is expected to be finalized by July.

“The main agenda is to have more coaches that are well qualified in Africa. We are very committed to developing the game of football in all aspects. This is a top-level manual writing, that’s why we engaged our local experts to help. The topics are many and we are hopeful that we will be successful,” said Kuyera.

Kuyera added that once the manual is approved, Malawi could begin offering the CAF A License course as early as next year.

Meanwhile, FAM Technical Director Benjamin Kumwenda highlighted the extensive scope of the manual, which includes modules on elite player nutrition, management, physiotherapy, and sports science.

“Basically, we intend to apply for a CAF A License so we have our colleagues from MUST to help us. We need to have coaches at top level so that Malawian coaches can be recognized in any top league in the world. If we have coaches with CAF A, the quality of our football will improve,” Kumwenda said.

Echoing these sentiments, Dr. Khumalo underscored the importance of raising coaching standards in the country.

“This is very important because local coaches need to be on top of their games. Most Super League coaches currently hold CAF B Licenses, so this initiative will go a long way in helping us acquire higher knowledge in the game,” said Khumalo.

Once the manual is completed and receives CAF’s approval, FAM will officially have the rights to organize CAF A coaching courses in Malawi.

FAM last organized a CAF A course in 2016 before CAF guided FAs to stop and develop custom tailored manuals.