BLANTYRE, Malawi, Oct. 10 (Xinhua) -- The resumption of sporting activities in Malawi has brought a sigh of relief among players and fans. For months now, people in the country have been not been able to share special moments due to tough restrictions meant to combat COVID-19.

However, the Malawi government has announced that all sporting activities will return in phases depending on the preparedness of the respective sporting association.

Meanwhile, football training is to start in mid-October to prepare teams for the start of Malawi's top league in November.

In an interview with Xinhua, Alfred Manyozo, captain for Be Forward Wanderers, could not hide his joy at the new development. However, he was quick to say that there is a need for all athletes to follow the Football Association's guidelines.

"It is good news that we are getting back on the pitch to do what we love most. Personally, I cannot wait to show our fans the great sport that they have been missing for so long. However, the excitement should not make us forget that COVID-19 is still out there," he said.

According to Malawi's government, strict guidelines that led to the reopening of schools and airports will also apply to sports in the country.

Commenting on the development, several soccer fans commended the government for considering them on the matter.

For Peter Simwaka, a die-hard supporter of Big Bullets in Blantyre, protecting the lives of the players and supporters should always come first. In relation to his statement, Simwaka said he will be on the forefront ensuring that his fellow supporters are following all the safety measures.

"I would like to urge my fellow supporters to adhere to all preventative measures that will be outlined for us. Reaching this time, it is so obvious that almost everyone is aware of the dangers of COVID-19. Therefore everyone is expected to be responsible," he said.

Football is one of the biggest sports in Malawi. For the past few months, fans and other stakeholders have been calling for the government to resume all sporting activities. Meanwhile, there is a steady decline of COVID-19 cases in many areas in Malawi. Enditem

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