Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its flagship brand Tusker, has endorsed the return of the Impala Floodlit rugby tournament, sponsoring it to the tune of Ksh 2 million.
The sponsorship has seen the company acquire the rights to be the competition’s Official Alcohol Beverage & Entertainment Partner.
The tournament which is set to return this Saturday, 29th October after a two-year hiatus occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic will be marking its 38th edition and will be played at the Impala Club, Nairobi.
Preparations are in top gear for the tournament with top Kenya Cup sides, Universities, Schools, and Women expected to grace the tournament which is the biggest pre-season tournament in the rugby calendar.
Speaking while announcing the sponsorship, Tusker Senior Brand Manager, Catherine Twesigye said that the sponsorship will be channeled toward ensuring the success of the tournament.
“We are delighted to once again renew our partnership with this special tournament that has proven over time to be one of the most eagerly awaited rugby tournaments in the country. I am certain that all rugby fans missed this tournament and we are grateful that it is now coming back after the two-year absence. Our sponsorship is tied to our continued commitment to support the development of the sport and also providing fans an opportunity to interact with our brand,” said Twesigye.
“This sponsorship is valued at Sh 2 million and is aimed at ensuring the successful organization of the tournament. We shall also be looking to add life to the tournament by providing entertainment to the fans who will be attending and we have lined up some of the top DJs for that purpose. We look forward to the event which promises to be of the highest quality, and urge all rugby fans to turn up for the tournament and cheer up their favorite teams,” she added.
On his part, Impala RFC Chairman Charles Ngovi lauded KBL for the sponsorship, noting that it will go a long way in supporting the event’s expenses. “We are glad to receive this sponsorship from KBL which will no doubt go a long way in ensuring the proper organization of the tournament. KBL continues to be a major partner of this tournament and we are delighted to have them on board once again for this year’s edition. It speaks to the company’s genuine commitment towards supporting the sport in the country and for that, we are forever grateful,” said Ngovi.
He further noted that the facilities at the Impala Club are in good shape ahead of the tournament. “We are ready for the tournament which has attracted a total of 22 teams, battling in three categories this — ladies, universities, and clubs. Everything is in place and the facilities are also in good shape ahead of the competition. We look forward to providing a great rugby experience to all our fans,” added Ngovi.
University and club categories will have eight teams each drawn from the Kenya Cup, Championship, and Nationwide leagues while the ladies’ category will have six teams.
Advance tickets to the tournament are now available at Sh300 for each of the first two weekends, with tickets to the final weekend going for Sh400.
