AIROBI, Kenya, February 25 – The Kenya Premier League (KPL) got another boost on Thursday from Kenya Data Networks (KDN) who on Thursday gave Sh13.5 million to officially become the competition’s broadcast sponsors.KDN supremo Kai Wulff said the move was a strategic fit for the company and a very important element of KDN’s support for local football.
“Football is the world’s favourite sport and a unifying language which knows no race, tribe or boundary,” said Wulff.
“Our sponsorship of one of Africa’s most popular football leagues creates a positive emotional link between our brand and millions of football fans in the world uniting the nation and building patriotism,” he added.
The deal comes barely a month after KDN announced a Sh20 million three year sponsorship deal of 2008 champions Mathare United.
“This will ensure the growth of a loyal continental fan base for Kenyan football clubs such as Sofapaka, Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards and Mathare,” said Wulff.
Multichoice Kenya General Manager Stephen Isaboke hailed the move as timely because of the interest KPL is starting to generate.
“We continue to invest aggressively in developing African content and expanding the real reach of our local content,” said Isaboke.
Meanwhile, Mathare coach Francis Kimanzi hopes his team can build on last Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Nairobi City Stars.
“If we can build on the positives that I saw over the weekend, I don’t think we should worry when we take on Chemelil on Saturday,” said Kimanzi.
“The resilience and composure the team showed to come from a goal down and the willingness to win is the character I believe will help us,” he added.
The former Harambee Stars coach is not worried about what his team’s opponents will offer on Saturday and is maintaining focus on preparing his team.
“I’ve not seen how Chemelil play because the season is still young. All I know is that they have a new coach and fresh recruits. I’m just concentrating on getting my team ready,” said Kimanzi.
