FAM will today roll out a programme to train match venue stewards across the country as one way of improving safety and security at elite matches.

The programme will start in the central region with a day long training of 40 stewards at Dedza Stadium today.

On Friday 100 stewards from Lilongwe will convene at Civo Stadium to be followed by  training of 40 stewards in Kasungu and Dwangwa on Saturday and Monday respectively. Each Super League club  will contribute 10 participants during the trainings.

FAM Competitions and Communications Director Gomezgani Zakazaka said programme is  targeting to train 600 stewards in all certified venues for Elite competitions.

“ We noted that there was a gap in match safety and security at our matches because most of our stewards are not properly oriented as we have not had training for a long time.

“This innovative programme will boost the capability of our stewards to respond to the problems of football-related disorder. The day long trainings will be covering topics from basic customer service through to acting appropriately in emergency situations.

“The need for a professional, well-trained stewarding system in Malawi is clear to everyone involved and the programme will go a long way to achieving this. We hope that we can start to make the football stadiums in this country safer and better managed places to watch football.”

The trainings will be facilitated by Malawi Police  Community Policing officers  Superintendent Bryson Golden, Assistant Superintendent Perry Mpangeni, FAM National Stewards Coordinator Pyson Mkuta, Central Regional Stewards Coordinator Saizi Mzumara and FAM CAF Security and Safety Officer Casper Jangale.

The programme for the north and the south will be announced next week.