The South African netball team and long-standing rivals Malawi have been drawn in separate pools for the African Netball Championships in Blantyre, Malawi, next week.

Malawi are in Pool 1, with Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana, while South Africa are joined in Pool 2 by Namibia, Swaziland and Uganda.

The tournament begins on Monday with the opening match between hosts Malawi and neighbours Zimbabwe.

South Africa play Namibia in their first game on Tuesday morning. They will then face Swaziland on Wednesday and Uganda on Thursday.

National coach Elize Kotze said on Sunday the Proteas were well prepared for the championships and she was confident they would return home with the title.

Despite the late set-back of losing a player, as Nontle Gwavu withdrew due to injury, the coach remained optimistic.

"Their experience in the Quad Series against Australia, New Zealand and England last year should prove invaluable," Kotze said.

"They learned so much about decision-making and thinking on their feet.

"We have a very mature and experienced team, and there is great understanding among the players.

"African teams are often very physical and unpredictable, but we are ready for them."