KRU secures new Ksh15 million sponsorship

The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has received a major shot in the arm after sealing a Ksh15 million in-kind sponsorship deal with national carrier Kenya Airways.

This sponsorship will support the national rugby teams’ travel for the next 12 months.

The sponsorship, announced on Saturday, 24 May, just hours before the Kenya Simbas’ friendly clash against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the RFUEA Grounds, is set to significantly ease the burden of logistics as KRU continues its efforts to return Kenyan rugby to the global stage.

Kenya Airways Chief Commercial Officer Julius Thairu confirmed the airline’s renewed commitment to rugby during the event, noting that the national carrier is proud to once again stand with the sport.

“We are very excited to launch this partnership with KRU. This is not the first time we are sponsoring rugby we were here in 2015 with Shujaa, and we are excited to be back.

This is part of our broader vision to contribute to socio-economic development. The construct of this partnership is in-kind. We are providing tickets worth 15 million for the coming 12 months to support their travel," Thairu said.

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KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai lauded the partnership, calling it a timely intervention.

“This partnership with Kenya Airways is a huge boost for our teams, especially at a time when we are aggressively trying to return to the global stage.

Travel is one of our biggest costs and this deal cushions us significantly. We are grateful to Kenya Airways for believing in Kenyan rugby and investing in our journey," Mutai said

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The deal comes at a pivotal moment for the Union, with Kenya Simbas gearing up for their 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification campaign.

The team has been in a residential camp in Kakamega for the past week and is scheduled to travel to South Africa next week for a month-long training camp.