BIG BOOST FOR CLUB WHICH NURTURED DIVINE LUNGA

Takudzwa Chitsiga

Zimpapers Sports Hub

AJAX Hotspur have received a huge boost following the acquisition of a 51 percent stake in the club by South Africa-based CJ Global Express Group Unlimited, which is owned by businessman Clemence Jaricha.

Hotspur, who were relegated to the ZIFA Southern Region Division Two at the end of last year, nurtured notable stars like Divine Lunga, Chrispen Machisi, Peter Muduva and Mbongeni Ndlovu.

Hotspurs’ founding director Siphambaniso Dube and Jaricha confirmed that the deal was as good as done. The acquisition bodes well for the team which is preparing to mount a strong challenge to bounce back into the Division One and then gain promotion into the Premier League.

Dube said the coming in of CJ Global Express Group Unlimited will add impetus to the team’s vision to nurture talent as well as make a huge impact on the local football landscape.

“Now that CJ has come on board, it will definitely change the football ecosystem,” Dube said.

“We have tried in the past 24 years with the little that has been coming out of our pockets and now that CJ is here the rest is history.

“We are going to lead by example, we are going to change how football is run. We see the likes of Scottland that have come in and invested a lot and this is the route that we also want to take and at the same time foster our tradition of changing people’s lives.”

Jaricha said the acquisition of a controlling stake in the club was motivated by three key issues.

“It was a strategic business opportunity. The club presents a unique opportunity for us to diversify our business portfolio, expand our brand presence, and tap into the vast and passionate football fan base.

“We are also committed to community development because football has the power to unite people, promote social cohesion and inspire positive change.

“We believe that our investment will contribute to the growth and development of the local community.

“Lastly the football club offers a global platform for us to promote our brand, values, and services, enhancing our reputation and reaching new customers,” said Jaricha.