BULAWAYO - A groundbreaking ceremony meant to fundraise for Rising Stars Academy, a brainchild of former Zimbabwe international Agent “Ajira” Sawu, is set to take place here today.  

The academy, which was launched in July 2010, has a total of 69 young football players in three age groups, who are registered under the Zimbabwe Football Association Junior League.

Speaking during a press conference in the city yesterday, academy chief executive and former Warriors kingpin Sawu said a number of former players and other stakeholders are set to grace the occasion.

The occasion will take place at the undeveloped site along Old Falls Road, opposite Northlea High School.

“The legends will be there, there will be music, braai, drinks and so many things as we try to fundraise for the academy,” Sawu said.

Bulawayo governor Cain Mathema has been lined up as guest of honour.

“The idea of an academy came about after we sat down with (the late) Adam Ndlovu and Peter Ndlovu to find out where we were getting it wrong in Zimbabwean football. We then realised that we need development from grassroots level.”

Sawu also paid tribute to the late Ndlovu for playing an influential role in the setting up of the academy.

The academy is set to be constructed on 16 000 square metres which the organisation was allocated by the Bulawayo City Council.

The academy is currently using the Gifford High School grounds for training.

The academy was formed with the assistance from the late Adam and his brother Peter, Zenzo Moyo, Musa Mguni, Nkosana Gumbo as well as Benjani Mwaruwaru.