By Levison Lester

Lilongwe, May 7, Mana: Spokesperson of Urban Music People (UMP), Marie Thom has said integration of sports in the upcoming festival will enhance experience, audience engagement, and promotion of physical activities in the country.

In an interview with Malawi News Agency, Thom said the integration of sports into UMP will feature diverse range of beach and niche activities that sports diehards enjoy.

“UMP festival will feature a diverse sports disciplines like table Tennis, beach volleyball, female beach football, darts, pool, arm wrestling, canoeing, fishing competition as well as kayaking competition.

“We are thrilled to introduce sports into the UMP Festival enriching the event with activities that celebrate athleticism, camaraderie, and community spirit. By incorporating these exciting sporting events, we aim to offer attendees a dynamic and diverse experience,” Thom said.

Thom further said the triumph of the sports integration will depend on the collaboration with stakeholders saying this enhances better execution of sporting events.

“To ensure the success of the sporting integration, Chitoliro is actively involving various local sports clubs, associations, and relevant authorities to facilitate the organization and promotion of the sports,” She added.

In his remarks, basketball player for Cobbe Barracks Ettiene Nyamilandu, said the initiative is a good development saying the integration will help teams to work-hard.

“This is a good development. It will help athletes to perform at higher level so that they can be recognised as the best and then get the award. In addition, this will also motivate teams and individuals to push for the greater good,”

UMP festival which began as a mini-concert at Grin Bamboo in Blantyre is expected to hold this years’ celebration on 25 to 28 October at Cape Maclear in Mangochi.