GOVERNMENT LAUNDS ZESCO LIMITED AND ATLASMARA’S ZEAL TO DEVELOP FOOTBALL IN THE COUNTRY

COPPERBELT MINISTER Elisha Matambo has commended ZESCO Limited and Atlasmara Bank for sustaining their support towards the development of football in the country.

Officiating at this year’s ZESCO United and Atlasmara Bank Players Award Gala Dinner held last evening at Protea Hotel in Ndola, Matambo says ZESCO Limited and Atlasmara Bank should be applauded for complementing government’s efforts in enhancing economic growth through the sport.

“The power and popularity of football is evident by the games ability to link communities, appeal to emotions, and to break barriers. And for a government that is committed to unite Zambia, this is one of the games we shall consistently support. Thus, government is thankful for the consistent corporate sponsorship of football without which Zambia’s football would not thrive.”

Matambo says football has become the most lucrative industry which the corporate world should not hesitate to exploit.

“The growth of football as a commercialized industry should potentially create more jobs and commercial exploits for communities. In this regard, sponsors like ZESCO Limited and Atlasmara must see their sponsorship as investments with immense economic benefits to the country.”

Meanwhile Atlasmara Chief Executive Officer, Bobblin Cheembela, says the Bank is resolved to continue supporting the growth of football in the country.

“Our sponsorship package with ZESCO United FC has grown over the years with the   2022/23 MTN Super League season reaching a record high of K2.2 million which affirms our ongoing commitment to fostering sports development in Zambia.”

And ZESCO United Chairman Maxwell Saya says club management has put in place strategic measures that will enhance the team’s performance on and off the pitch.

“To improve team performance, we restructured and boosted the technical bench, we reinforced the team, we rejuvenated the spirit of team work and gathered the courage to dust ourselves and move forward.

“Furthermore, we have taken decisive steps to better organize the women’s team in a bid to improve professionalism in the management of its affairs and to position it for elevation into the international realm of football.

“To enhance administrative performance, we have worked on our corporate governance by polishing policies, processes and procedures. We have also tightened prudence with financial resource management in line with national policy requirements. The aim is to ensure our audits are clean.”

Gracing the event on behalf of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), Zambia Premier League Chairman, Kephas Katongo has challenged ZESCO United to comeback stronger next season.

“ZESCO United is one of the teams that strengthened our position among the elite teams in African football due to their outstanding performances in CAF competitions. As you prepare for the 2023/24 season, we can implore you to work hard and ensure that you live up to your continental reputation,” Katongo said.

Author: Desmond Katongo