Paris Paralympics: Massive boost for Team Kenya as preps enter final stages

Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its flagship brand Tusker on Wednesday 7 August announced a Ksh5 million sponsorship for the Kenya National Paralympic Committee (KNPC) as the team prepares to represent the country at the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

The sponsorship will go towards supporting the team’s preparation, and participation in the games scheduled for 28 August 28 to 8 September in the French capital.

In addition to the financial contribution, Tusker is proud to outfit the Paralympic team with an official travel kit, crafted locally by Kenyan hands. This kit symbolizes the nation's support and showcases the talent and craftsmanship of our people.

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Speaking during the sponsorship presentation at EABL Offices, Mark Ocitti, KBL Managing Director, expressed the company's commitment to supporting Kenyan athletes.

“Tusker has always been a champion of the Kenyan spirit, and our Paralympic athletes exemplify the very best of our nation. We are honored to partner with these extraordinary individuals who embody the true spirit of Kenya," he offered.

He continued, "Their dedication and perseverance inspire us all. We believe in their potential to achieve greatness on the world stage, and we are committed to providing them with the necessary support as they strive for glory at the Games.”

Ocitti added that their commitment aims to boost the team’s morale and showcase the talent of our nation and are confident they will make Kenya proud.

"Through this sponsorship, we aim to bring Kenyans together behind our Paralympics team. Their success will not only inspire the nation but also contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society," he concluded.

Bhaveet Chudasama, vice president of the Kenya National Paralympic Committee, expressed gratitude for the support acknowledging that it would help them achieve great things at the Paris Games and inspire future generations of Paralympic athletes.

Kenya will be represented by a team of 14 para-athletes who will compete across five disciplines at the Games. The squad comprises a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers all poised to make their mark on the global stage.

Leading the charge is the formidable trio of Nancy Chelangat (Guide Geoffrey Rotich), Mary Waithera (Guide-James Boit), and Prisca Jepkemoi (Guide-Kenneth Lagat) in the 1,500m T11 category.

Samuel Mushai, aiming for a historic fifth Paralympic appearance, will partner with guide Jean Kipchumba. Other athletics stars include John Lokedi (5,000m T13), Wesley Sang (1,500m T46), Samson Ojuka (Long Jump T37), and Sheila Wanyonyi (Javelin F12).

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Joining the athletics contingent is Dedan Ireri Maina, a cycling sensation who recently clinched four gold medals at the Africa Para-cycling Championships in Cairo. He will be joined by fellow cyclist Kennedy Ogada.

The dynamic duo of Stacy Neema and Julieta Moipo will represent Kenya in taekwondo, while Asiya Sururu takes to the water for rowing.

Completing the team is the formidable powerlifter Hellen Wawira, fresh from the World Powerlifting Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia, where she secured her spot through a strong world ranking