MSACCO rewards Malawi Scorchers stars Simwaka and Thom after WAFCON

Malawi Scorchers players Asimenye Simwaka and Sabina Thom have each received K1 million from financial services provider Msilikali SACCO (MSACCO) after helping the national team qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The cash awards recognise their contribution to Malawi’s historic campaign at the 2026 WAFCON.

The qualification marks the first time Malawi’s women’s team has reached the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Simwaka and Thom were among the Scorchers players whose performances helped secure the landmark achievement during the continental tournament.

MSACCO presented the awards at a ceremony led by its board chairperson, Lt Col Andrew Kamponda. The organisation honoured the players as members whose work for the national team also brought distinction to the SACCO.

Simwaka attended the handover and received both awards. She accepted her own prize and collected Thom’s on behalf of her teammate, who could not be present at the ceremony.

The recognition came as MSACCO celebrated the wider Scorchers squad for taking Malawi to the global stage. The organisation also expressed its support for the team as it prepares to represent the country at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

For Simwaka and Thom, the awards add a personal reward to a campaign that has already created a new milestone in Malawian football. Their achievement at the 2026 WAFCON has earned Malawi its first place at the women’s World Cup, while their links to MSACCO gave the organisation a direct connection to the historic qualification.