The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) and FredRobie Concept Zambia have signed a partnership agreement that will see all participating teams at the National Division One playoffs walk home with K100,000 each.
The partnership will run for a period of five years with an option to extend. Through the partnership with the marketing agency, FAZ will meet all costs associated with the playoffs including match organising, officiating fees, security and other related costs.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, FAZ president Andrew Kamanga is confident the sponsorship package will act as a huge incentive to a number of teams which usually face challenges in meeting the cost of transport and accommodation during playoffs.
“Under this partnership, FAZ will pay clubs which qualify for the playoffs a total sum of K100,000 as recognition for winning the league in their respective provinces. We hope that they can channel part of this money towards meeting their travel and accommodation during the playoffs,” Kamanga said.
“As FAZ, we have placed a high premium on developmental leagues that heavily tap into our local talent and it is for this reason that we are continuously looking to find sponsorship especially for our lower leagues that have been in dire need of finances for a long period of time.”
FredRobie chief executive officer Stanley Kasiya described the agreement as a solidifier to the company’s commitment in the development and promotion of football in Zambia such as the National Division One playoffs.
Kasiya said FredRobie and FAZ will take on the responsibility of managing and mobilizing sponsorship for the Division One playoffs from 2024 and beyond.
“We strongly believe that sponsorship plays a pivotal role in the sustainability and advancement of football as seen in development industrialised countries. With the support of our partners, we will work tirelessly to secure sponsorship that will not only enhance the overall experience for players, officials, and spectators but also provide a solid platform for the Division One playoffs to thrive,” Kasiya said.
“We will explore various avenues to maximise exposure and generate meaningful partnerships that will contribute to the long-term success of the Division One playoffs. We will take this partnership seriously and work hand in hand with FAZ to ensure the playoffs receive the attention, resources and management they rightfully deserve by engaging both the private and public sector players in the economy.”