Safaricom and the Kenya Rugby Union have reached an agreement for a two-year sponsorship arrangement for Ksh 90 million through MPESA.
The 90 million is split between Lionesses and Shujaa, the National Men’s 7 team.
After a 15-year hiatus, Safaricom joins Sportpesa to sponsor the Shujaa Sevens after a long-awaited return to the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.
“As an organization, we are passionately devoted to fostering sports from the grassroots upwards. This sponsorship package will comprehensively address player remuneration, health insurance, and even extend to financial management workshops, equipping athletes with the necessary skills to prudently manage their earnings,” remarked Esther Waititu, Chief Financial Services Officer of Safaricom.
KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai, during the unveiling ceremony, lauded Safaricom for their generous support that will go a long way to ensuring the team’s success on the international stage.
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Safaricom for this generous sponsorship after a hiatus of fifteen years. This pivotal support will significantly enhance our preparations and streamline player facilitation. Our ultimate aspiration is to secure a position among the top eight teams by the culmination of the HSBC World Rugby Series, thereby circumventing relegation struggles. This sponsorship will undoubtedly be instrumental in realizing that ambition.”
With this sponsorship, MPESA earns the right to the back of the Shujaa jerseys, as Sportpesa’s 84 million sponsorship earns the right to the front. As for the Lioness, MPESA will get front and center placement on their jerseys.
Kipchumba Murkomen, the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, commended the rugby union for their unwavering initiative to seek sponsorships from the private sectors rather than always solely depending on the government.
He also assured the ministry` will continue to support and work closely with the rugby union to ensure their success and growth in the future.
“The ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to bolstering the KRU to the fullest extent possible while also putting a strong emphasis on the need for the players and the union to deliver since they have been fully equipped for the competitions ahead.
“Players and union members, I urge you to deliver stellar performances now that all essential resources have been provided.”
“I extend my gratitude to Safaricom for promoting inclusivity by recognising women athletes on an equal footing with their male counterparts, free from any discrimination,” he added.
