The Football Legends Association (FLA) has led Malawians in paying their final respects to former Flames striker Esau “Black Mamba” Kanyenda, who died on 2 December 2025 in the United Kingdom after a battle with liver cancer. The loss has plunged the country’s football family into deep mourning.

Memorials were held on Thursday at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe and Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre, where government officials, retired players, relatives and scores of supporters gathered to lay wreaths, observe moments of silence and share memories of a player who carried Malawi’s hopes abroad. The FLA publicly invited the nation to join the tributes.

“Esau was loyal, committed and a true servant of Malawian football,” said Jim Kalua, FLA board chair, addressing mourners in Lilongwe. “His dedication to the game and to young players was absolute, we have lost a member whose life and stories will continue to teach and inspire.”

Former coach Kina Phiri remembered Kanyenda as a model professional.

“Esau was disciplined, humble and hardworking. He loved the game and gave his all for club and country. His passing has left us shattered,” Phiri said, voice breaking as he recalled Kanyenda’s rise from local pitches to international stadiums.

Speaking for the family, Kanyenda’s brother Christopher described the late striker as “a pillar” whose absence will be painfully felt.

“He was the heart of our family and a source of pride for our community. Filling the gap he leaves will not be easy,” he said.

A life on the rise — career and legacy

Born in Dedza in 1982, Kanyenda rose through Malawi’s local leagues before making his mark internationally. He enjoyed a professional career that included spells in South Africa, Russia, Denmark and Georgia, and he became one of Malawi’s most recognisable forwards in the 2000s. He also earned long service with the national team, becoming a symbol of grit and perseverance for younger players.

Fans and former teammates recalled Kanyenda’s athleticism, work ethic and trademark determination — traits that earned him the nickname “Black Mamba.”

Many paid tribute on social media and at the stadium memorials, sharing photographs, chants and personal stories that underlined the affection the nation held for him.

Kanyenda had publicly disclosed his diagnosis shortly before his death and had appealed for prayers from well-wishers. He died surrounded by some family members, according to reports, and his remains currently lie in state in the United Kingdom while funeral arrangements are being finalised. The family has said it will announce details of the final interment in due course.