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VEN
Kenyan rugby received a massive boost on Monday as the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) and announced a groundbreaking Ksh. 90 million sponsorship deal to support the national rugby teams, Shujaa and Lionesses.
The two-year partnership, unveiled at a vibrant ceremony held at RFUEA Grounds, aims to elevate the teams’ competitiveness both locally and internationally, with Shujaa set to participate in the first leg in Dubai this weekend.
The unveiling event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai, M-PESA Africa CEO Sitoyo Lopokoiyit, and Safaricom’s Chief Financial Services Officer Esther Waititu. Speaking during the event, KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai expressed profound appreciation for the partnership, underscoring its significance in revitalizing Kenyan rugby.
George Ooro has been named stand-in co-captain alongside Samuel Asati for Kenya's first two legs of the 2024/2025 HSBC SVNS in the absence of Tony Omondi and Vincent Onyala.
“We are grateful to Safaricom and M-PESA, the biggest brand in East Africa, for their immense support. This sponsorship is a lifeline for our teams as we embark on a journey of exemplary performance. I urge the government and other stakeholders to follow suit and rally behind our teams,” Mutai stated.
He also highlighted the Lionesses’ recent qualification for the 2025 HSBC Series Challenger, stressing the importance of maintaining a top-eight position to avoid relegation.
Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen lauded the KRU for securing the sponsorship, describing it as a reflection of good governance within the federation.
Shujaa head coach Kevin Wambua has provided a positive update over the futures of striking co-captains Tony Omondi & Vincent Onyala.
“This partnership marks the historic return of M-PESA and Safaricom to Kenyan rugby. It is a testament to good leadership within the federation. As a ministry, we will continue supporting sports federations that show initiative and accountability,” Murkomen affirmed.
Esther Waititu of Safaricom detailed the broader vision of the sponsorship, emphasizing its holistic impact on Kenyan rugby.
“We are truly excited about this partnership. Beyond sports, this sponsorship includes financial education, health support, and monthly salaries for players and staff, all facilitated through M-PESA. This is about making a long-term impact at the grassroots level and ensuring Team Kenya dominates as Africa’s rugby giants,” she explained.
Kenya Rugby Union is standing its ground over the contracts offered to Shujaa players as a number of senior players have boycotted training demanding for better terms ahead of the Dubai leg.
M-PESA Africa CEO Sitoyo Lopokoiyit added that the sponsorship goes beyond financial aid by providing critical resources for players and staff, such as insurance coverage.
“Our goal is to ensure Team Kenya thrives on and off the pitch. Through M-PESA, we’re committed to supporting payment systems, health insurance, and financial education for our rugby teams,” he stated.
The Ksh. 90 million injection is expected to enhance the teams’ preparation, performance, and overall welfare, creating a renewed sense of purpose for both Shujaa and the Lionesses.
Additionally, KRU recently secured another significant partnership with SportPesa, which has committed Ksh. 84.15 million to Shujaa’s campaigns over the next two seasons.
The deal includes Ksh. 33 million for the 2024-2025 season and Ksh. 49 million for the 2025-2026 season, further strengthening the union’s financial position as it seeks to restore Kenyan rugby’s former glory.
