KRU seals partnership worth millions with EABL ahead of Safari Sevens tournament

Photo credit : Chunyi Picha

RUGBY KRU seals partnership worth millions with EABL ahead of Safari Sevens tournament

Mark Kinyanjui 14:00 - 08.11.2023

Kenya Rugby Union pockets Ksh. 15 million to cover both the Safari Sevens and the Elgon Cup event this November after sealing deal with EABL.

The East Africa Breweries Limited (EABL) has today announced a 15 million sponsorship package with the Kenya Rugby Union for both the Safari Sevens series Victoria Cup fixtures set to take place in November this month.

The Victoria Cup -merged with the Elgon Cup - will take place at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu this weekend, while the Safari Sevens Tournament will take place at the RFUEA Grounds from the 17th to the 19th of November.

Both Kenya Simbas and the Kenya Lionesses 15s side will also don Tusker-branded kits as part of the deal, but all Shujaa Sevens sides will continue wearing SportPesa branded shirts during the tournament.

Speaking during the sponsorship presentation at the RFUEA Grounds today, KBL Managing Director Mark Ocitti expressed the brand's deep commitment to the sport during the sponsorship presentation held at KBL headquarters in Ruaraka. 

“On behalf of the KBL, we are delighted to announce this sponsorship to the Kenya Rugby Union to support the upcoming Victoria Cup and the Safari Sevens tournaments. 

“Our investment signifies our unwavering dedication to the growth and development of rugby in Kenya, both in the present and the future.  

“We are determined to continue working hand-in-hand with KRU to return the Safari Sevens and Kenyan rugby in general to its former glory.

“Our sponsorship is not merely an investment; it's a testament to our belief in the potential of Kenyan rugby. 

“Through this partnership, we aim to reignite the passion and excitement that rugby has always brought to our fans. This is not just about sports; it's about the pride and unity that rugby brings to our nation,” he said.  

He further assured fans of an exceptional experience at the upcoming tournaments

"As we have consistently demonstrated in our previous rugby engagements, rugby enthusiasts can consistently anticipate outstanding experiences at rugby matches, courtesy of Tusker. 

"Our goal is to create memorable moments, both on and off the pitch, that will resonate with fans and players alike. We want everyone to feel the heartbeat of Kenyan rugby," said Mr. Ocitti.  

On his part, KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai, acknowledged Tusker's continued support for the Safari Sevens and Victoria Cup tournaments, emphasizing the significance of this long-standing partnership in ensuring the events' success.

"Tusker has been a steadfast partner, standing by Kenyan rugby in various capacities for many years. 

“We are forever grateful for their continued support. The return of the Safari Sevens and the Victoria Cup represent a crucial step forward for rugby in Kenya. 

“With the caliber of teams set to participate, we are all but assured of spectacular tournaments that will captivate the rugby fraternity.

“We urge all rugby fans in the country to come out in large numbers to support their favorite teams. Together, we will create unforgettable moments," said Mr. Mutai.  

The Elgon Cup is an annual rugby competition that takes place between the national rugby teams of Kenya and Uganda. This event consists of both men’s and women’s rugby matches, providing an exciting showdown between the two neighboring East African nations.

 It has been played since 2004, with the exception of 2005 due to the men’s Rugby World Cup qualifiers and 2020-2022 owing to the COVID19 pandemic that disrupted socio-economic activities globally.

On four occasions, 2010, 2011, 2019 and now in 2023, it has been part of the Victoria Cup, a regional tournament that also features Zambia and Zimbabwe, although the latter has pulled out of this season’s competition.

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