An urgent appeal for more funding marked the formal announcement of partners for the HSBC SVNS Division 2 tournament, as Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) confirmed that while significant progress has been made, more support is needed to successfully host the global event on February 14–15 at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi.

KRU chairperson Harriet Okatch revealed that the total budget for hosting the Kenyan leg of the HSBC SVNS Division 2 stands at Sh200 million. So far, Sh100 million has been raised, including Sh60 million in cash, leaving a critical funding gap.

“That is why we are appealing for more funds,” Okatch said, noting that hosting the event is “no mean feat” and requires collective effort from both existing and new partners.

KRU vice chairperson Moses Ndale echoed the appeal, explaining that securing the tournament involved intense negotiations with World Rugby. He said the union had worked hard to meet all requirements, with current commitments covering about 60 percent of what is needed.

“We have really pushed hard to ensure that World Rugby is going to honour this tournament,” Ndale said, adding that the back-and-forth process only concluded once KRU demonstrated credible local support.

Ndale confirmed key partners, led by the Government of Kenya, which pledged support and issued a crucial letter of commitment through the Ministry of Sports and SASDEF, one of World Rugby’s mandatory conditions.

He also confirmed M-PESA as a partner, citing its continued backing of the women’s national team and its role in facilitating player salaries and benefits through Safaricom systems.

East Africa Breweries Limited (EABL), through its Tusker brand, was unveiled as a powering partner, extending a long-standing partnership with KRU that includes the Safari Sevens.

SportPesa was also confirmed as a partner, having stood by Kenyan rugby during challenging periods and now rejoining the journey as Kenya hosts the Division 2 event. Capital FM was named the official media partner, committing Sh4 million in kind, while Crown Paints was recognized in absentia for its continued support of Shujaa.

Safaricom Money Transfer Services Limited CEO Andrew Kabeke reaffirmed the company’s pride in supporting Kenyan rugby through M-PESA. He said the sponsorship of Sh10 million, both in cash and in kind, reflects Safaricom’s commitment to community development through sport. “We are proud and happy to sponsor the games, in the spirit of ensuring that we, as Kenyans, give back to the community,” Kabeke said as he urged fans to fill the stadium over the Valentine’s weekend.

Tusker Marketing Manager,  Christine Kariuki described the tournament as a milestone that showcases Kenya’s talent and capacity to host world-class competitions. She said Tusker and Kenya Breweries Limited were honoured to continue working with KRU, Shujaa, and the Lionesses, promising entertainment and a vibrant fan experience that brings Kenyans together.

SportPesa Kenya Head of Marketing Senorine Wasike reaffirmed the company’s long-standing relationship with Shujaa, including its support of the National Sevens Circuit, now renamed the SportPesa Sevens. She expressed confidence that the team belongs in the top tier and called on fans to show love for both Shujaa and the Lionesses.

Kenya Lionesses captain Sheila Chajira thanked sponsors for believing in the teams, while Shujaa co-captain Samuel Asati said both squads are in intensive preparation, including high-performance camps in South Africa (Shujaa) and Spain (Lionesses).

CEO Thomas Odundo noted that ticket sales have surpassed 6,000 and are approaching 10,000, reflecting strong public interest. As KRU leaders emphasized, the focus now is to close the remaining funding gap, fill Nyayo Stadium, and ensure Kenya delivers both on and off the pitch when the world turns its eyes to Nairobi where six men's and six women's national teams will fight for glory in round-robin format.

HSBC SVNS 2 comprises of three legs. The other two legs will be held in Montevideo, Uruguay and Sao Paulo, Brazil.