By Rahim Abdul
Malawi’s rich football history is set to take center stage as former Flames player and Football Legends Association (FLA) board member, Peterkins Kayira, prepares to launch a landmark publication titled Football in Malawi.
The book launch, scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026, will take place at the prestigious Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, drawing key stakeholders from the country’s sports fraternity.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Alfred Ruwan Gangata, is expected to grace the occasion as guest of honour, underlining the national significance of the event.
Kayira revealed that the journey of writing the 208 page book, which contains over 20 chapters, began as far back as 2015 and was only completed in 2023 after years of research and reflection.
The publication offers a detailed account of Malawi’s football story, tracing its evolution from 1962 to the modern era, capturing both triumphs and struggles along the way.
Beyond statistics and match records, the book dives into the origins of the Malawi national team, providing insights into how the Flames were formed and how they have evolved over decades.
Kayira, who represented Malawi between 1980 and 1989, also shares personal experiences from his playing days, offering readers a rare glimpse into the life of a national team footballer during that era.
He reflects on defining moments of his career, highlighting unforgettable matches and the challenges he faced on his journey to the top level of the game.
Importantly, the book contrasts the football culture of Kayira’s generation with that of today, shedding light on changes in professionalism, discipline and the overall structure of the sport.
Born in Msomi village under Traditional Authority Mwenewenya in Chitipa District, Kayira built an impressive playing career across several clubs including Rumphi United, Mzuzu Oriental Tobacco Stars, Mzuzu Moneymen, Limbe Leaf Wanderers, Bata Bullets, Civo and MITCO.
His wide ranging experience at both club and international level places him in a unique position to document Malawi’s football heritage with authenticity and authority.
