Seabata Mahao
The Lesotho National Insurance Group (LNIG) Hollard announced a substantial M900, 000 sponsorship to the Lesotho Defense Force (LDF) Football Club (FC), marking a significant milestone for the premier league club.
Under the sponsorship agreement, LNIG Hollard will provide LDF with M300, 000 annually for the next three years. The partnership aims to bolster the club’s financial stability and support its ongoing development, including the LDF’s ladies’ team.
Mpho Vumbukani, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of LNIG Hollard, expressed satisfaction with the formalisation of the long-term agreement. He highlighted that LNIG Hollard had previously supported various events and tournaments hosted by LDF.
“We are pleased to officially launch this sponsorship, which has been in discussion for some time. Even before this agreement, we were collaborating with LDF FC,” Vumbukani said.
“In the past, the LDF Commander would reach out for assistance with matches, and we were happy to help. This long-term agreement will enhance the visibility of our partnership through the club’s kits.”
Liepollo Tsekoa, Head of the Brand and Marketing Department at LNIG Hollard, also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership.
“LNIG Hollard is excited to support LDF FC and to back teams that are making a significant impact. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to football clubs and aligns with our strategic goals,” Tsekoa said.
She also emphasised that the sponsorship marks the beginning of a three-year commitment, aimed at fostering growth and success for LDF.
On his part, Brigadier Khomo Mohobo, the president of LDF FC, commended LNIG Hollard for ensuring equity and expressed gratitude for the sponsorship. Mohobo noted the longstanding relationship between LDF and LNIG Hollard, describing the event as a testament to their enduring friendship. He also highlighted that all LDF members are affiliated with LNIG Hollard, underscoring their close ties.
“The club’s prominent male and female players continue to represent Lesotho with distinction. Recent performances, including a notable match against a team from Bethlehem, demonstrate that LDF FC remains a powerful and influential force in Lesotho football,” Mohobo stated.
Lieutenant General Mojalefa Letsoela, Commander of LDF, praised the clubs and expressed gratitude to LNIG Hollard for their support.
“We are here to sign this important agreement for sports. LNIG Hollard’s commitment to these two football teams is invaluable. I commend the efforts to secure private sponsorship and am glad to see their success,” Letsoela said.
With this robust support from LNIG Hollard, LDF FC’s potential for growth and success becomes increasingly evident. The partnership is set to enhance the teams’ competitive edge, improve performance, and contribute to a stronger football infrastructure in Lesotho.
Ultimately, the sponsorship is expected to leave a lasting legacy, reinforcing the role of football in uniting communities, fostering talent, and driving positive change across the nation.
LDF FC has a storied history in Lesotho football, with league championships in 1983, 1984, 1987, 1990, 1994, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, and 2004. The club also won the Independence Cup in 1983 and subsequently in 1984, 1987, 1990, 1994, and 1997. In addition, LDF FC has triumphed in the Top 8 competition in 1985, 1995, 1997, and 1998, with their most notable victory being the LNIG Top 8 title in 2019.
