Ekhaya Extends Wanderers Sponsorship

Mighty Mukuru Wanderers can now breathe a sigh of relief as their major sponsor Ekhaya Group of Companies has extended the club’s sponsorship.

The decision to extend the sponsorship comes weeks after Ekhaya owner Thomson Mpinganjira, who is also the Lali Lubani Road outfit’s president and board chairperson, cast doubt on extending the sponsorship, saying they felt let down by how football is administered in the country.

In an interview, the business magnate and philanthropist said after a huge amount of thought, he has decided not to abandon the club.

“That does not change my position that there are serious shortfalls in football administration in Malawi, but we do some of these things out of passion and social responsibility.

“Apart from my passion for the team, I am looking at a broader perspective such as the effects of pulling out in terms of how the team will be affected.

“So, perhaps we just have to accept some of these situations as they are and live with them.

“But yes, we are continuing with  sponsorship for both Wanderers and [newly-promoted ThumbsUp Premier Division side] Ekhaya United.  Management [of Ekhaya] can provide more details.

Ekhaya group financial controller Alfred Mtetemera  said the issue is still under discussion.

He said: “I can indeed confirm that sponsorship is there, but we don’t have figures yet. We will advise once we conclude.”

Ekhaya are the Nomads’ biggest sponsor, having pumped in close to K1 billion in the past two seasons followed by international money transfer platform Mukuru, who pump in about K175 million annually.

Nomads board secretary Chancy Gondwe said: “We are immensely thankful to our sponsor  Ekhaya Group of Companies for their unwavering support and belief in our club’s values and aspirations.

“Together, we look forward to an exciting season ahead filled with memorable moments, achievements, and shared successes.

“As we embark on this new chapter with our co-sponsor by our side, we are confident that together, we will reach new heights and create lasting memories for all those who love and cherish our beloved team at Lali Lubani.”

Gondwe also confirmed that they  are yet to agree on the finer details about the sponsorship agreement and the nation shall be informed