The Safari Sevens tournament, one of the premier rugby events in Africa, has received a significant financial boost from Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) through its flagship brand, Tusker. With a Ksh22 million sponsorship, Tusker continues its decades-long partnership with Kenyan rugby, reaffirming its commitment to the growth and development of the sport. This sponsorship marks another major milestone in the relationship between KBL and Kenyan rugby, further cementing Tusker’s role as a key supporter of the sport in the country.
The 2024 Safari Sevens will be held from October 11th to 13th at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, with Tusker serving as the official alcoholic beverage and entertainment partner. The tournament promises to offer fans not only thrilling rugby action but also an unforgettable entertainment experience, complete with live music, food stalls, and a vibrant fan zone.
A Legacy of Supporting Kenyan Rugby
Kenya Breweries Limited, through its Tusker brand, has been a long-standing supporter of Kenyan rugby, with its partnership stretching over three decades. Tusker first became the title sponsor of the Safari Sevens in the early 1990s, and since then, the brand has played a pivotal role in the growth of rugby in Kenya.
Speaking during the announcement of the sponsorship, KBL Managing Director Mark Ocitti expressed the company’s pride in being part of Kenya’s rugby journey. “At Kenya Breweries, we are thrilled to once again be involved in this prestigious tournament. Rugby holds a special place in our hearts, and we are proud to continue our legacy of supporting the Safari Sevens,” said Ocitti.
This morning, @TuskerLager affirmed their support for the 2024 #Safari7s tournament with a 22 Million sponsorship.
Read more on the launch here: https://t.co/MUq8nUCWgJ pic.twitter.com/78XRHRRmBV
— Kenya Rugby (@OfficialKRU) September 24, 2024
This Ksh22 million sponsorship follows KBL’s successful support of the 2024 National Sevens Circuit, further solidifying its dedication to nurturing the sport and creating a platform for the next generation of rugby talent. Ocitti emphasized that this investment is not just about the present but also about the future of rugby in Kenya. “We see this as an opportunity to contribute to both the present and future of the sport, helping to nurture the next generation of talent while also providing fans with an exciting, unforgettable experience,” he added.
Enhancing the Safari Sevens Experience
The 2024 Safari Sevens promises to be bigger and better than ever, thanks in part to Tusker’s sponsorship. Fans attending the tournament can expect a unique entertainment experience that goes beyond the rugby field. KBL’s sponsorship will bring a festival-like atmosphere to the event, with live music performances, a variety of food and drink offerings, and a dedicated fan zone that will cater to both rugby enthusiasts and those simply looking to enjoy a fun day out.
This year’s tournament will feature a diverse lineup of teams, including both professional and amateur squads from around the world. In the men’s category, teams like Kenya Shujaa (the defending champions), Kenya Morans, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Qatar, Shogun Rugby, Tropic 7s, and Mayotte are set to compete for the coveted title. On the women’s side, teams such as Kenya Lionesses, Kenya Cubs, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Tunisia, Tropic 7s, Spanish Barbarians, and Shogun Rugby will showcase their skills on the field.
KBL’s partnership with the Safari Sevens is more than just financial support; it’s about enhancing the overall experience for both players and fans. “We are dedicated to ensuring that the Safari Sevens remains one of the most vibrant and well-supported events in the regional rugby calendar,” said Ocitti. With Tusker on board as the official entertainment partner, fans can expect a fun, family-friendly environment that celebrates both rugby and Kenyan culture.
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A Crucial Partnership for Rugby in Kenya
The Safari Sevens is a key event in the Kenyan rugby calendar, and KBL’s support has been instrumental in its success over the years. The tournament has grown in stature and is now recognized as one of the top rugby events in Africa, attracting teams and fans from across the globe.
KRU Vice-Chairman Moses Ndale expressed the Kenya Rugby Union’s (KRU) gratitude for KBL’s continued support. “KBL has been one of our most consistent and valuable partners, and we are delighted to have them on board once again for this year’s Safari Sevens. Their support over the years has been instrumental in elevating the tournament to the level it enjoys today,” said Ndale.
Ndale also highlighted the importance of Tusker’s sponsorship in ensuring the smooth running of the tournament, especially given the logistical challenges involved in hosting an event of this scale. “When you think of rugby in Kenya, the name Tusker inevitably comes to mind. It’s a brand that has become synonymous with the sport, and we are grateful for their continued backing,” he added.
Tusker’s Role in Nurturing Future Rugby Stars
One of the key aspects of Tusker’s sponsorship is its focus on developing future rugby talent in Kenya. By investing in events like the Safari Sevens, Tusker is helping to create opportunities for young players to showcase their skills on a global stage. The tournament serves as a platform for up-and-coming rugby stars to gain exposure and experience, which is crucial for the growth of the sport in Kenya.
In addition to nurturing young talent, Tusker’s sponsorship also helps to elevate the profile of Kenyan rugby on the international stage. The Safari Sevens attracts teams from all over the world, and the exposure that Kenyan players and teams receive through this tournament is invaluable.
Save the date | This year marks the 26th edition of the @safarisevens tournament that’s been confirmed for 11th to 13th October 2024.#Safari7s pic.twitter.com/mXLqYWI29q
— Kenya Rugby (@OfficialKRU) August 30, 2024
A Bright Future for Kenyan Rugby
The Ksh22 million sponsorship from Tusker is a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to Kenyan rugby. This partnership not only supports the Safari Sevens but also contributes to the overall growth and development of the sport in Kenya. With Tusker as a key partner, the future of Kenyan rugby looks brighter than ever.
As fans eagerly await the start of the 2024 Safari Sevens, they can look forward to an exciting weekend of rugby, entertainment, and celebration. Thanks to KBL’s support, the tournament will continue to be a highlight of the Kenyan sporting calendar, offering fans and players alike an unforgettable experience.
For those planning to attend the tournament, the 2024 Safari Sevens promises to deliver top-tier rugby action combined with a vibrant festival atmosphere—making it a must-attend event for rugby enthusiasts and families alike.
