2024/25 Carling Black Label Samuel ‘Zoom’ Ndhlovu Charity Shield Launched in Lusaka
The 2024/25 Carling Black Label Samuel ‘Zoom’ Ndhlovu Charity Shield has been officially launched in Lusaka, featuring an unprecedented two matches preceding the new season. For the first time in the competition’s history, both men’s and women’s teams will participate.
The men’s category will see 2024 MTN Super League champions Red Arrows face ABSA Cup runners-up Kabwe Warriors on August 10 at 15:00, in the traditional curtain-raiser at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
In the lunchtime kick-off, FAZ Women’s Super League champions Green Buffaloes will compete against National League champions Choma Warriors Academy, marking a significant move to support and highlight the growth of women’s football in Zambia.
Zambian Breweries Head of Marketing, Thelma Kaonga, announced at the launch that over K600,000 has been invested in the Shield, including K200,000 in prize money and K125,000 in sports kit.
“At Zambian Breweries, we are deeply committed to promoting gender equality and diversity in sport because we believe both men and women have unique strengths, talent, and perspectives to offer,” Kaonga said. “By featuring the women’s teams as curtain raisers, we aim to support and highlight the tremendous growth and potential of women’s football in Zambia.”
FAZ General Secretary, Reuben Kamanga, expressed gratitude to Zambian Breweries for its continued support, noting that the three-year sponsorship has helped restore the respectability of the championship, which has a history spanning over six decades. He also encouraged other sponsors to join in supporting the sport.
Zambian Premier League Chief Executive Officer, Joseph Chimpampwe, mentioned that a number of activations will be held on the side-lines of the Shield to create a family-friendly atmosphere.
Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu urged more corporate entities to emulate Zambian Breweries’ support. “I am aware that there are plans to launch new cup competitions this year. This development is a huge step in encouraging teams to compete for silverware. We urge other corporates to come on board to introduce more cup competitions in the Zambia Premier League,” Nkandu said.
He also encouraged the media to promote value addition by collaborating closely with stakeholders.
