Thandi Phiri Wins Scorchers Limited Edition Kit Design Competition

 

Thandi Phiri receiving reward for scorchers kit design competition 

Blantyre-based designer Thandi Phiri has been named the winner of the Scorchers Limited Edition Kit Design Competition, the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has announced.

The competition, launched on January 4, 2026, invited creatives from across the country to submit designs for a special Malawi National Women’s Team kit to be worn at the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026.

A total of 137 entries were received nationwide and assessed by a three-member Kit Design Competition Committee comprising FAM Executive Committee member Felister Dossi, sports merchandise expert Shabil Ismail of Into Sports, and renowned marketer Twikale Chirwa, who also sits on the FAM Competitions and Marketing Committee.

After a rigorous selection process, Phiri’s design emerged top for its creativity, originality, and strict adherence to CAF kit regulations.

Announcing the winner, Dossi described the initiative as a landmark moment for Malawian football.

“This is the first time we have gone to the public to solicit designs for a national team kit. With the Scorchers qualifying for the WAFCON finals, we felt it was important to introduce a limited-edition kit to mark this historic achievement,” said Dossi.

She explained that 11 designs were shortlisted from the initial submissions before the final winner was selected.
“Beyond creativity and originality, we also assessed strict compliance with CAF regulations governing kits at this level. The winning design satisfied all the requirements,” she added.

Dossi further revealed that the official unveiling of the jersey is expected in the first week of March.

Reacting to her victory, an emotional Phiri expressed gratitude and disbelief at being selected.

“It was unexpected, and I am grateful to God. With so many entries, I never imagined I would be chosen as the winner of the Scorchers AFCON jersey,” she said.
Phiri said her design was inspired by the Scorchers’ historic journey to the continental finals.

“I researched the team’s journey—the losses, the wins, and the long process of building the squad. I focused on symbols of femininity, elements of the Malawi sun from our flag, and representations of women, sport, and the supporters back home,” she explained.

The Scorchers qualified for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations finals after defeating Angola 2–0 on aggregate, securing their first-ever appearance at the tournament.
At the finals, Malawi has been drawn in Group C alongside continental heavyweights Nigeria, Zambia, and Egypt.

By Knoxy Kam'mwamba 

#ThandiPhiri
#scorchers
#Wafcon