FAM President Fleetwood Haiya Appointed to FIFA’s Future of Football Committee
The President of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM), Fleetwood Haiya, has been appointed as a member of FIFA’s prestigious Future of Football Committee a global body tasked with advising on the long-term strategy and evolution of the world’s most popular sport.
Haiya’s appointment marks a proud moment for Malawi and Africa at large, placing the country on the global football governance map. The Committee brings together experienced football leaders and thinkers to help shape the future of the game through strategic policy recommendations to the FIFA Council and its Secretariat.
In a statement released following the announcement, Haiya expressed deep gratitude and a sense of responsibility for the appointment.
“I am truly honoured and humbled to have been appointed as a member of FIFA’s Future of Football Committee,” he said. “My sincere gratitude goes to President Gianni Infantino, FIFA, and all those who have entrusted me with this important responsibility.”
According to FIFA, the Committee will focus on ensuring football remains “relevant, resilient, equitable, and globally sustainable”, while also tackling emerging trends and challenges that may affect the game’s future.
Haiya emphasized the importance of inclusivity and innovation as the game continues to evolve.
“As a member of this Committee, I pledge to serve with dedication, integrity, openness, and a forward-looking mindset,” Haiya said. “I carry with me the voice of Malawi, Africa, and future generations, committed to shaping a football landscape that unites, inspires, and endures.”
His appointment has been widely welcomed across Malawi’s football community and beyond. Local stakeholders see it as a positive development that could bring international exposure, new partnerships, and insights that will benefit the country’s football ecosystem.
Mzuzu based Football analyst Chindikani Nyirenda praised the news, saying:
“This is a proud moment for Malawi. Haiya’s presence on this committee shows that our football leadership is being recognised at the highest levels. We believe this will open up new opportunities for the game at home.”
Under Haiya’s leadership, FAM has undertaken several reforms focused on youth development, women’s football, and infrastructural improvements, positioning him as a progressive and reform-minded administrator.
As global football continues to navigate complex issues from technological integration and financial fair play to climate impact and inclusivity Haiya’s role on the Committee is expected to give Malawi a voice in the critical conversations shaping the next generation of football.
“Football is more than a game,” Haiya concluded. “It is a powerful platform for unity, identity, and opportunity. I am ready to contribute meaningfully to its future, for Malawi and the world.”
