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The returning Rugby Super Series has received a huge boost after KRU signed a lucrative partnership deal with network service provider Jamii Telecoms (JTL).
After a decade-long hiatus, the Rugby Super Series made a triumphant comeback on Saturday, May 3, at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi
However, the absence of sponsors and the iffy attendance by the fans there raised concerns among enthusiasts.
Nevertheless, their worries were assuaged when the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) announced a significant sponsorship deal with telecommunications company Jamii Telecom (JTL), amounting to Ksh. 4 million.
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09:30 - 04.05.2024
Everything you need to know as Rugby Super Series finally returns following a decade-long hiatus
The first round of the 2024 Rugby Super Series fixtures are set to take place at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi this Saturday, May 4.
Of this sponsorship, Ksh1.5 million will directly benefit the players, while the remaining funds will be allocated to branding, internet connectivity, and merchandising for the series.
KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, seeing it as a positive indicator of the administration's ability to attract financial support. Mutai also voiced optimism that the collaboration with JTL would pave the way for more sponsors to come on board.
"We thank JTL through Faiba Mobile for this partnership, and we intend to grow it further, for they have shown they believe in our vision of taking rugby to the next level," Mutai remarked.
This marks the second time JTL has sponsored rugby, following their support during the 2023 Safari 7s tournament. Mutai expressed gratitude for JTL's consistent support and expressed hopes for a long-term partnership.
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"We are happy with the way they have been supporting rugby in the country. We are continuing the conversation; we want them to come with us in the long run now that they have confidence in us," he added.
Mutai emphasized the significance of the Rugby Super Series in providing a platform for talented players to showcase their skills before a larger audience. He also highlighted its role in aiding coaches in selecting the best team to represent the national side, the Simbas.
"It is a pivotal moment for Kenyan rugby, for this is the platform where the best players meet, and they end up forming formidable national teams," Mutai affirmed. "It will go a long way because, through it, the union will actualize its plans to have the Lionesses and men’s 15 aside and Simbas qualify for the 2025 and Rugby World Cups, respectively."
Jamii Telecom representative Cyrus Sang expressed delight at being part of the talent nurturing process, emphasizing the potential for rugby's growth in the country.
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"We believe in rugby because it has a spectrum that cuts across both men's and women's teams, and we picked rugby because if there is a common objective in terms of building teams and capacity, then you are likely to get value for our money," Sang stated.
As the series enters its second leg, excitement continues to build among fans, with two thrilling matches scheduled at the Nakuru Athletic Club: the Lions versus the Cheetahs and the Buffaloes against the Rhinos.
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