As Kenya’s national rugby team, the Simbas, gear up for one of the most important phases in their journey — the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers — a powerful symbol of national pride has stepped in to fuel their flight: Kenya Airways.
In a partnership worth KSh15 million, the national carrier isn’t just flying the Simbas to South Africa and Uganda — it’s helping carry the hopes of a country hungry for a return to the global rugby stage.
At a vibrant event held at the RFUEA Grounds, the airline was unveiled as the official travel partner for the Simbas, a timely boost as the squad begins its month-long high-performance camp in South Africa. But for the players and management, this isn’t just about logistics — it’s about belief.
“This support shows us that the country is behind us,” said Simbas captain George Nyambua. “We’re not just going to South Africa to train — we’re going to prove that Kenya belongs at the World Cup.”
The partnership with Kenya Airways underscores a larger story: the rebirth of the Simbas’ ambitions. After a difficult few years that saw the team fall short in France during the 2023 qualifiers, the rebuild has been intentional — with a blend of young, hungry players and seasoned warriors. Backed now by a national brand, the team feels the tide is turning.
Kenya Airways’ Chief Commercial and Customer Officer Julius Thairu framed the sponsorship not just as a corporate responsibility, but as a shared journey.
“We believe in transformation, resilience, and African excellence — values that this team represents. The Simbas are more than a rugby team; they are a symbol of what Kenya can achieve with belief and support.”
The KSh15 million in-kind sponsorship covers all team travel over the next year, starting with the current South African training camp and stretching into the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers. For a team that often struggles with funding — and has in the past had to juggle performance with financial uncertainty — the support is game-changing.
Kenya Rugby Union Chair Sasha Mutai welcomed the move, saying it was a major step in the right direction.
“You can’t put a price on preparation. Flying the team efficiently, safely, and on time removes a major headache from the technical bench. Now, we can focus purely on performance.”
The Simbas depart later this week for South Africa, where they will train and play competitive fixtures against high-level provincial sides. From there, they’ll head to Uganda for the Rugby Africa Cup, which doubles up as the 2027 World Cup qualifying tournament.
With regional giants like Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda standing in the way, the path is far from easy. But with boots laced, a 33-man squad sharpened by training, and Kenya Airways behind them, the Simbas believe this time could be different.
For a nation used to roaring in stadiums for its runners and volleyballers, perhaps it’s time for a new sound — the growl of a Simba, ready to roar on rugby’s biggest stage.
