Malawi football legend Kanyenda burial today
Esau Kanyenda, the legendary Malawian footballer, will be laid to rest today in the United Kingdom.
Kanyenda, affectionately known as “Black Mamba,” passed away on December 2, 2025, at the age of 43, after battling liver cancer in the United Kingdom.
Kanyenda’s football career spanned over two decades, with notable stints at Dwasco FC, Jomo Cosmos, Rostov, Lokomotiv Moscow, and Mighty Wanderers.
He represented Malawi’s national team, the Flames, 72 times, scoring 22 goals, and is remembered for his impressive performances at the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations .
Some of Kanyenda’s notable achievements include:-
*First Malawian in UEFA Champions League*: He became the first Malawian to feature in the UEFA Champions League with Lokomotiv Moscow.
*Prolific Goal Scorer*: Kanyenda scored 21 goals in 65 appearances for the Malawi national team.
*Trailblazer*: He paved the way for Malawian footballers in international leagues.
Tributes have poured in from fans, former teammates, and football authorities, celebrating Kanyenda’s talent, leadership, and lasting impact on Malawian football.
