Frank Mojah Dzuwa
Just a week after confirming that Rab Processors Limited would not renew its sponsorship agreement, the Southern Region Football Association (SRFA) has unveiled a new K100 million sponsorship deal with FINCA Malawi for the region’s Premier Division League.
Rab Processors had been supporting the league, then known as the ThumbsUp Premier League, for six years, helping to grow football in the Southern Region before deciding not to renew its contract.
The one-year partnership with FINCA Malawi, which is subject to extension, will see the competition rebranded as the FINCA Southern Region Premier League “Mpira Uyake!”.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, FINCA Malawi Chief Commercial Manager Mada Jonazi said the financial services institution believes the partnership will benefit both football and communities connected to the sport.
Jonazi said K40 million from the sponsorship package will go directly into football operations and prizes, while the remaining K60 million will be directed towards financial inclusion initiatives targeting stakeholders within the football ecosystem.
“Through this partnership we will reach communities that are deeply connected to football and support them with responsible financing that can improve their livelihoods,” said Jonazi.
He added that the initiative will also create opportunities for players, officials, traders, vendors and young entrepreneurs who earn a living around football activities to access FINCA Malawi’s savings and loan products.
From the sponsorship package, K16.1 million has been allocated for team prizes, with the champions set to receive K8 million, while the runners-up will receive K3 million. Teams finishing from third to eighth position will also receive cash prizes of varying amounts.
SRFA Chairperson Dyles Kachala has called on clubs, officials and all stakeholders to safeguard the new sponsorship to ensure it benefits football in the region.
“I can only ask all stakeholders to guard this sponsorship jealously because if we lose this, we are losing more than just sponsorship. We will also be losing the opportunity for many people to benefit from this partnership,” said Kachala.
The sponsorship also marks the first time in 30 years that FINCA Malawi has partnered with sporting activities.
