By Chisomo Phiri
Non-governmental organisation Extending Hope is targeting to raise K450 million through a dinner and dance event scheduled for November 27 at Golden Peacock Hotel in Blantyre to expand its football academy in Machinjiri Township.
Speaking during a press briefing in Blantyre on Tuesday, the dinner and dance organising committee chairperson, Deus Sandram, said the funds will be used to purchase land and develop additional infrastructure to transform the academy into a fully-fledged football institution.
Sandram said the academy has been operating for the past few years using its existing facilities, which include a primary school, secondary school, hostels and a farm, but needs additional infrastructure as it prepares for its official launch.
Extending Hope Organisation board chairperson Billy Kuntepere said the academy will adopt a holistic approach to youth development by nurturing learners academically, spiritually and mentally while equipping them with skills to become professional footballers.
The academy currently has 150 young footballers, comprising 75 boys and 75 girls, and competes in the FCB Under-20 Blantyre Football League.
