By OUR CORRESPONDENT
The Kenya Rugby Union and Sportpesa on Wednesday announced a partnership that will redefine the future of Kenya’s Sevens team Shujaa.
The landmark sponsorship comes at a crucial juncture for Shujaa, as they aim to rebound after a season of relegation from the HSBC World Rugby Series.
Sportpesa CEO Ronald Karauri, unveiled the details of a two-year sponsorship worth a total of KSh 84.15 million.
The commitment marks a significant increase from the previous season’s KSh22 million, with KSh33 million dedicated to the 2024/2025 season and KSh 49.15 million for the 2025/2026 season.
“We are proud of Shujaa’s resilience,” he said, highlighting their remarkable journey back into the HSBC World Series within a year.
Karauri encouraged Shujaa’s players to keep pushing forward, reminding them that hard work and dedication would yield results, while also calling upon other sponsors to join Sportpesa in helping Kenyan rugby thrive.
KRU CEO Thomas Odundo acknowledging the impact of this timely support saying facing relegation was a difficult period for the team, but Sportpesa’s arrival has injected fresh energy and resources, setting Shujaa up for a spirited comeback.
“We appreciate Sportpesa coming in for us during a difficult time,” he remarked, adding that the entire squad was looking forward to performing exceptionally well in the coming HSBC series, buoyed by this major boost.
Willis Ojwang, Sportpesa’s Partnership`s manager, highlighted the company’s commitment to grassroots talent development, which has been instrumental in fueling Shujaa’s roster.
Through their backing of the national sevens circuit, Sportpesa has been able to identify and nurture local talent, helping Kenya establish a competitive presence on the international rugby stage.
“We believe in the potential of local players,” he noted, underscoring how the national circuit has evolved into a vital pipeline for Shujaa’s talent.
KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai also hailed the Sportpesa’s support.
The enhanced sponsorship has not only improved the players’ conditions but also bolstered their training environment, fostering an optimal space for peak performance, said Mutai.
Mutai expressed confidence in Shujaa’s prospects, setting a target of a top-8 finish in the HSBC series to avoid relegation. “Our players are in a better position now, ready to compete at the highest level,” he affirmed.
Shujaa player Samuel Asati expressed heartfelt thanks on behalf of his teammates. With Sportpesa’s support, he promised that the team would be better prepared for the final leg of the HSBC World Series in Los Angeles, determined to make Kenya proud.
