Kenya’s rugby fortunes received a major boost on Wednesday, August 12 after HACO Industries, through its Amara brand, increased its financial support for the national men’s 15-a-side team, Simbas, from KES 1.5 million last year to KES 2.5 million this year.
The enhanced commitment came a day after Kenya’s Under-20 side, Chipu, reclaimed the Rugby Africa U20 Barthes Trophy by humbling Namibia 33-14 in the final in Uganda, further underlining the strength of the country’s rugby development pathway.
Speaking during the partnership renewal ceremony in Nairobi, HACO Industries Marketing and Customer Service Director Catherine Obwino said the company was proud to build on a relationship that had grown over the past two years.
“This year, we are pleased to be stepping up our commitment and taking the partnership to the next level,” said Obwino, adding that Amara’s association with rugby began when the brand initially supported Chipu.
She congratulated Chipu for their triumph and noted that the partnership was built around shared values of “strength, resilience, confidence and African pride.”
Obwino disclosed that Amara would provide KES 2.5 million in direct financial support to help the Simbas meet their operational needs, besides supplying skincare products to the team and supporting rugby events.
Sheila Mbeere from HACO Industries explained that the partnership had started three years ago with a phone call to former Kenya Chipu team manager Jimmy Mnene and had since grown into a relationship whose benefits were being felt by both Amara and rugby.
“We just wanted to celebrate with Kenya Rugby Union and celebrate the Simbas for supporting us and being our partner,” said Mbeere, expressing gratitude for the growth of the relationship.
Kenya Rugby Union chief executive officer Thomas Odundo welcomed the renewed commitment, saying the partnership had grown gradually. He noted that sports offered opportunities beyond the field.
“We keep on doing this yearly and improving every year. We just hope that what Amara is getting out of our partnership can now be extended much longer,” said Odundo.
KRU vice chairman Moses Ndale revealed that the partnership would help provide better care for players during training, preparation and after matches. He also stressed the importance of ensuring continuity between Chipu and the senior Simbas.
“The foundation is there. Let's build the house together,” said Ndale, adding that KRU’s blueprint was designed to ensure young players transition smoothly into the senior team without experiencing a “culture shock.”
Simbas player Bethuel Anami welcomed the early support, saying previous preparations had often started too late.
“We are very grateful that we are starting it very early,” said Anami. “We need more gameplay so that it can help us going into the tournament.”
KCB Rugby, Kenya Shujaa and Simbas star Samuel Asati also praised the partnership, saying corporate backing boosts players’ morale and demonstrates confidence in Kenyan sport.
“When someone trusts you with their money, that shows they believe in you, and you have to deliver. That's a morale booster to the boys and to the team,” said Asati
He said the renewed partnership could also help the Simbas begin preparations early for their next World Cup campaign, with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the 2032 tournament.
Chipu’s Barthes Trophy victory has given the partnership added significance, with the junior side now the most successful team in the competition’s history after winning the title for a record fourth time.
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