Press Briefing Held at Toyota Cairo Branch, Lusaka – November 6, 2024
On 6th November 2024, CFAO Mobility Zambia’s Toyota Division gathered leaders, dignitaries, and media at Toyota’s Cairo branch in Lusaka to proudly announce its sponsorship of the Japanese Ambassador’s Judo Cup, set to take place on November 16, 2024, at the Olympic Youth Development Centre. This event not only celebrates the rich sporting heritage of judo but also marks a deeper commitment to the cultural bridge between Zambia and Japan.
Mr. Peter Blomefield, Chief Operating Officer for CFAO Mobility Zambia’s Toyota Division, spoke on the significance of this partnership. “As a Japanese-affiliated company, we’re dedicated to supporting cultural and sporting ties between Zambia and Japan. This sponsorship is a natural reflection of our mission to foster strong community and cultural engagement.” With Toyota’s heritage and global reach, this sponsorship reinforces CFAO Mobility Zambia’s dedication to values shared by both countries.
Honoring Judo’s Core Values and Japan-Zambia Friendship
In a speech that resonated with the spirit of judo, Mr. Ominato Satoshi of the Japanese Embassy highlighted the enduring values embedded in the sport, flexibility, patience, resilience, and efficiency. “In judo, it’s not just about the moves; it’s about understanding the strength of adaptability and precision,” he stated. “It’s this approach to growth that makes judo such a fitting symbol for the longstanding friendship between Zambia and Japan, especially as Zambia celebrates 60 years of independence.”
Expressing gratitude for Toyota’s K50,000 sponsorship, Mr. Mabvuto Ng’uni, General Secretary of the Judo Association of Zambia (JAZ), noted, “This is more than financial support; it’s a message of encouragement for athletes and the entire judo community in Zambia.” He acknowledged CFAO Mobility’s far-reaching support for sports across Zambia, including golf, football, and motorsports.
CFAO Mobility’s Broader Commitment: Empowering Zambia’s Youth
In addition to supporting local sports, CFAO Mobility Zambia is actively investing in educational and development initiatives across the country. The “Strong Girls, Strong Zambia” program, through which CFAO has built schools in rural areas, exemplifies this commitment to youth empowerment and community development. “We see education and sports as powerful, complementary forces for building discipline, unity, and excellence,” Blomefield added.
As excitement builds for the Japanese Ambassador’s Judo Cup, CFAO Mobility Zambia warmly invites the public to join the event, experience the dedication and spirit of Zambian judo athletes, and celebrate the vibrant connection between Zambia and Japan.
With this sponsorship, CFAO Mobility Zambia not only contributes to the sports community but also honors a shared commitment to cultural exchange and mutual growth. As Blomefield concluded, “Together, we aim to build a stronger Zambia, one Judo throw at a time.”
