The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has signed a one-year renewable sponsorship deal for the senior men’s national football team with Zambian Breweries.

The deal was signed on behalf of the FAZ by the football governing body’s president Andrew Kamanga at Pamodzi Hotel on May 5.

Zambian Breweries Managing Director Annabelle Degroot signed on behalf of her organisation.

Speaking at the event, Kamanga said the sponsorship would help in the realisation of Zambia’s dream to make the most of its potential as a unique brand of football in Africa.

He acknowledged that the FAZ had a long-standing relationship with Zambian Breweries as chief sponsors of the national team during and leading up to the Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2012 through their Mosi brand.

“The coming in of Zambian Breweries as a sponsor of the Chipolopolo team throws a challenge to us all at FAZ,” said Kamanga.

“The fact that the national team will be supported by such a large corporate entails that the level of our game needs to improve both on the pitch and in administration.

“We are truly grateful for their involvement in Zambian football and their desire to see the sport reach new heights as exemplified through this renewed sponsorship package.

“As a new executive committee, we will strive to maintain the highest levels of professionalism in the administration of our game and will uphold good corporate governance principles and best practices at all times.

“It is pleasing to note a corporation as large as Zambian Breweries takes a keen interest in football. I am glad that the organisation is a leading example on this score. This is what must characterise a good corporate citizen – an organisation that ensures that the community in which it operates is empowered in some way.”

The FAZ Chief further stated that his administration would position the FAZ as an equal business partner with the corporate world.

“It is the intention of the new executive committee to model FAZ on the world stage as a football body that champtions professionalism, and transparency in all its dealings. In doing so we believe we will attract the much-needed sponsorship and funding to enhance that professionalism.”