BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has expressed renewed optimism in the country’s football development following the official unveiling of French national, Yvon Avry, as the new Technical Director.
The association believes Avry’s arrival marks a decisive step toward building a stronger technical foundation for both youth structures and elite football.
Speaking at Mpira Village in Blantyre, FAM President Fleetwood Haiya said the organisation is confident that meaningful progress in football can only be achieved when the right technical personnel are in place.
He emphasised that Avry’s appointment reaffirms FAM’s long-term vision of strengthening grassroots football and aligning its developmental programmes with modern global standards.
Haiya noted that Malawi’s football growth narrative has reached a stage where technical leadership must be driven by expertise, consistency and a clear development pathway.
He stressed that Avry brings exactly that, describing him as a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of African football dynamics and youth development systems.
The FAM president also paid tribute to outgoing Technical Director Benjamin Kumwenda, acknowledging his commitment and passion for nurturing Malawi’s football talent at various levels.
Haiya said Kumwenda laid an important foundation that Avry is expected to build upon as the country pushes for improved competitiveness in local and international football.
In his remarks, Avry said he is entering the role with confidence, citing his vast experience in African football environments.
He noted that Malawi already has a strong football culture and his mandate will focus on organising and modernising structures to ensure that talent is identified early and developed systematically.
Avry said he does not intend to overhaul the entire system but rather work with existing strengths within Malawi’s football setup.
He highlighted coaching education, youth training programmes and talent scouting as immediate priority areas that require strategic support to unlock the country’s full potential.
The Frenchman also indicated that he will collaborate closely with local coaches across the country, saying capacity building remains central to sustainable football development.
According to him, empowering coaches at district and regional levels will create a solid base for producing well-trained players capable of competing internationally.
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