Madison honours grandfather’s 101st birthday with football bonanza in Nkhata Bay

By Blessings Kaunda………

A United Kingdom based Malawian, Danass Madison, on Wednesday, December 24, marked her grandfather’s remarkable 101st birthday by organizing a football tournament in Nkhata Bay District, celebrating his lifelong passion for the beautiful game.

The one day football bonanza drew community members together in honour of Byson Mhango, whose love for football dates back to his youth.

Speaking in an interview, Madison said the event was inspired by the special bond she shares with her grandfather and their mutual love for the sport.

“My grandfather used to love watching and following football. I wanted to take him back to his old days and celebrate what he loved most,” Madison said.

Despite his advanced age, Madison described Mhango as energetic and self-reliant, noting that he still goes to the farm on his own where he grows maize.

“He is 101 years old but still strong. He does not want anyone to work on his behalf. He insists on doing things for himself,” she added.

Madison said the football tournament was not only a birthday celebration, but also a way of appreciating her grandfather’s long life and strength, while uniting the community in honour of elderly people.

She further appealed to families living with grandparents to treat them with love, patience and dignity, rather than subjecting them to harmful accusations.

“Many elderly people suffer from dementia, which affects memory. This should not be mistaken for witchcraft. We must take good care of them,” she advised.

The birthday celebrant, Thomson Chirwa, expressed deep gratitude for the surprise, saying he was overwhelmed by his granddaughter’s gesture.

“I am over the moon. I did not expect this from my granddaughter. She remembered what I used to love in those days,” Mhango said.

Chirwa also called on communities to respect and protect older people, emphasizing their role in preserving values and identity.

“Grandparents are human beings with a role to play in society. When we are mistreated, we lose our identity as a community because the image we create is not who we truly are,” he said.

He attributed his long life to self-discipline, urging the youth to take care of their lives and avoid behaviours that could destroy their future.

“I believe my 101 years are a result of self-discipline. Young people should look after themselves and stay away from habits that can ruin their lives,” he added.

Chirwa, who has over 60 grandchildren, said Madison is his third grandchild and praised her for setting a shining example of love and respect for the elderly.

The football action saw 11 Champions FC face Rovers FC in an entertaining match. After a goalless draw in regulation time, Rovers FC emerged victorious, winning 5–4 in post-match penalties.

The colourful celebration left lasting memories for the community, highlighting the power of sport in uniting people while honouring those who laid the foundations of society.