The Irish Embassy donated MK5.3 million to the Malawi Paralympic Committee on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, to aid in preparing four athletes for the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games later this month.
Speaking after making the donation at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, where the athletes are conducting their training, Irish Ambassador to Malawi Seamus O’Grady stated, “It is essential that the athletes prepare well for the major showpiece so that they can deliver superb performances and win medals.”
“I believe our contribution will play a significant role in boosting their confidence, knowing they have prepared thoroughly. Sports have the power to unite people worldwide.
“We were impressed by the Malawi Paralympic Committee’s efforts during our previous meeting, which prompted us to support them.”
Malawi Paralympic Committee President James Chiutsi expressed his excitement about the gesture, saying, “We are thrilled as we have approached several local companies and the corporate world but the Irish Embassy has responded positively.
“Currently, our key supporters are the Malawi government, K2 Transformers, our national sponsor, and the Irish Embassy. It is encouraging to see organizations like the Irish Embassy supporting us. I appeal to local companies to support the Paralympic games.”
One of the athletes, Mphatso Saukile, expects a successful tournament in Paris and believes the support will help the athletes put in extra effort during preparations.
He is confident that Team Malawi will perform well and bring home medals. Saukile qualified for the Paris Paralympic Games in December 2022 during the African Union Region 5 Youth Games hosted in Lilongwe.
Team Malawi will depart for Paris, France, on August 21.
The competition is scheduled to begin on August 27 and conclude on September 8.
The athletes are expected to return on September 11, 2024.