Team Kenya receive massive sponsorship boost ahead of Paris 2024 Olympic Games

Team Kenya’s journey to the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Wednesday 13 March got a huge shot in the arm after landing a sponsorship deal with Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) worth Ksh. 30 million.

The sponsorship, officially handed over to the National Olympic Committee – Kenya (NOC-K), is set to go towards supporting Team Kenya in preparations for the Summer Games taking place from 26 July to 11 August 2024, as well as assisting the organization to meet its logistical requirements.

"At KBL, our commitment to Kenyan sports runs deep, with a rich history of supporting our sportsmen and women in various disciplines including athletics, football, golf, rugby, and beyond,” Mark Ocitti, Managing Director of KBL said in the ceremony held at Moi International Sports Centre - Kasarani.

“We understand the transformative power of sports in shaping lives and communities, and we therefore remain dedicated to fostering talent and promoting sports excellence at all levels. It therefore gives us great joy to continue our partnership with the National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) in supporting our athletes," he added.

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Also in attendance was Hon. Ababu Namwamba, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, who commended KBL for its continued support of Kenya's sporting endeavors, and further assured Team Kenya of the government's full support.

He said: “I want to assure our athletes that the government stands firmly behind you as you prepare for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Your dedication and hard work represent the essence of Kenyan excellence, and we are committed to providing all the necessary support to ensure your success on the global stage.”

NOC-K President, Dr. Paul Tergat, meanwhile, labeled KBL's sponsorship of Team Kenya “testament to their belief in the potential of athletes and their dedication to supporting our sporting aspirations” while adding that his committee was fully committed to upholding the highest standards of fairness and transparency in the selection process for all participants in the Olympic Games.

“As NOC-K, we are fully committed to upholding the highest standards of fairness and transparency in the selection process for Team Kenya. Integrity and meritocracy will guide our decisions as we strive to assemble a team that will make our nation proud at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” he said.

Kenya aims to field a contingent of between 80 and 90 athletes for the Paris Olympics, with the goal of surpassing the 10 medals secured at the Tokyo Games in 2021.

Notably, two team sports have already secured qualification: the national volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, and the Kenya Sevens rugby team.

Additionally, fencer Alexandra Ndolo has secured her spot.

Expectations are also high for Olympic Marathon defending champions Eliud Kipchoge and Peres Jepchirchir, who are expected to be among the final selections for Team Kenya in the marathon category.