NBK Pledges Kshs 1 Million to Special Olympics Kenya

The National Bank of Kenya (NBK) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering sports.

They have done this by pledging Kshs 1 million to Special Olympics Kenya (SOK).

Moreover this is ahead of the highly anticipated Special Olympics World Winter Games set to take place in Turin, Italy, from March 7th to 16th, 2025.

The sponsorship will facilitate the team’s preparations and travel, ensuring they are well-equipped to represent Kenya on the global platform.

Speaking on the sponsorship,

NBK Managing Director George Odhiambo highlighted the bank’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and social empowerment through sports.

“Sports play a powerful unifying role.

We are honoured to support our athletes with intellectual disabilities as they prepare to represent Kenya on the global stage.

This sponsorship emphasizes our belief in the power of sports to drive positive social change and create opportunities for all,” said Odhiambo.

The partnership aligns with NBK’s broader sustainability agenda, which seeks to uplift communities through various social responsibility initiatives.

Kenya’s growing presence in Winter Sports

The World Winter Games will feature over 1,500 athletes.

From more than 100 countries, competing across eight different sports in the Piedmont Region.

The event marks the first edition of the Games since 2017.

Furthermore, the increasing global recognition of winter sports among athletes with intellectual disabilities.

The Kenyan team will depart for Turin on March 6th, 2025, and is expected back on March 17th.

Their participation not only reflects Kenya’s rising presence in winter sports but also sets the stage for a thrilling global competition.

Impact of the Sponsorship

NBK’s sponsorship will play a crucial role in the athletes’ journey.

Further enabling them to undergo thorough training and travel comfortably.

Additionally, Special Olympics Kenya Board Treasurer Ms. Mugadi expressed gratitude for the partnership.

Emphasizing its significance in preparing the athletes.

“We are grateful for NBK’s support, which will go a long way in ensuring that our athletes are well-prepared to compete at the World Games level.

This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration

in creating an inclusive society where athletes with intellectual disabilities can thrive,” said Ms. Mugadi.

Introduction to Floorball

The Kenyan team will participate in Floorball,

A dynamic indoor team sport developed in the 1970s in Sweden. Floorball is played in a rink with five field players plus a goalkeeper in each team.

Further, the game is similar to ice hockey.

With players using plastic sticks and a light ball.

However, Special Olympics modifies the format to 3 versus 3 matches with goalkeepers on smaller courts measuring 20 meters by 12 meters.

Henceforth, the collaboration between NBK and Special Olympics Kenya marks a significant step towards promoting inclusivity

Furthermore, empowering athletes with intellectual disabilities, as they embark on their journey to the World Winter Games.