Nzoia Sugar FC secure lifeline sponsorship from West Kenya Sugar

Nzoia Sugar FC secure lifeline sponsorship from West Kenya Sugar

Nzoia Sugar FC celebrates scoring against Nairobi City Stars during their FKF Premier League match at Kasarani Annex on June 03, 2023. Nzoia Sugar won 3-1. PhotoSportpicha

Former FKF Premier League side Nzoia Sugar Football Club has secured a vital sponsorship deal, ending years of financial hardship and signalling a fresh start for the Bungoma-based outfit.

The announcement was made on Saturday at Sudi Stadium, revealing that the club, now renamed Nzoia Sugar (2025), will be backed by West Kenya Sugar Company, which recently acquired Nzoia Sugar. The new partnership marks a turning point, with the club now under the management of an organisation known for its substantial investment in Kenyan sports.

Speaking on behalf of West Kenya Sugar Company Managing Director Tejveer Rai, the Head of External Affairs and Communications, George Muruli, affirmed the company's commitment to reviving the team and ensuring its long-term success.

“We are delighted to oversee the transition of Nzoia Sugar FC into Nzoia Sugar (2025). Just as we are working to revive the factory, we are equally committed to bringing the football club back to life, given its strong community support,” said Muruli.

West Kenya Sugar has established itself as a major player in Kenyan sports, particularly in rugby and motorsport, including the prestigious Safari Rally. Muruli noted that the model used to develop Kabras Sugar Rugby Football Club, another team under the company's sponsorship, would be replicated at Nzoia.

“Our approach to sports is rooted in sustainability and development. We plan to scout talent from schools, support their education, and nurture them into professional footballers while also securing their futures beyond their playing careers,” Muruli explained.

“Just as we support farmers to grow sugarcane, our approach in sports is similar: identify, nurture, and develop talent, then provide job opportunities in our factories for retiring athletes. That’s how we ensure sports are both sustainable and rewarding,” he added.

Head coach Charles Odero warmly welcomed the news, admitting the team had reached a breaking point.

“We were in the Premier League, but when financial support dried up, we were relegated to the National Super League. Things started going downhill after the initial sponsorship was terminated,” said Odero.

He revealed that seven players had left for rival clubs, while others abandoned the sport altogether due to hardship.

“Some couldn’t afford to come for training. And when they did, morale was low. We couldn’t expect hungry players to perform. Sometimes we traveled with only 15 players and no meals,” he said.

Coach Odero is now optimistic about the future: “With this new sponsorship, I believe we’ll earn promotion back to the Premier League next season—that’s where we belong.”

Team captain Emmanuel Esekon echoed those sentiments, describing the players' struggles since the original Nzoia Sugar Company withdrew.

“It has been tough, paying rent, putting food on the table, and travelling for away games was a nightmare. But this deal has restored our hope. I know the boys will give it their all next season,” said Esekon.

He added, “The morale is high now. Players who were on the verge of quitting are back with renewed energy. As this season comes to an end, we look back at the hardships and forward to a better future with stable support.”

Club chairman Evans Kadenge thanked the new management of Nzoia Sugar (2025) for stepping in to rescue the team.

“Nzoia Sugar FC has fans far beyond the Western region. After the initial sponsorship ended, we had to rely on community contributions, but it was a constant struggle,” Kadenge said.

Due to financial challenges, the club was forced to forfeit seven matches this season. Chairman Evans Kadenge described the new deal as a blessing not just for the players and technical staff but for the entire community.

“The days of suffering are behind us; we’ve entered a new chapter. We understand our new sponsor’s expectations, especially considering their track record with Kabras Sugar RFC, who’ve reached every final since their promotion. That’s the standard we’re aiming for,” said Kadenge.

Bukembe East MCA Caleb Wanjala and Matulo MCA Stephen Simiyu attended the event, highlighting the significance of the new partnership to the local community.

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Nzoia Sugar Football Club West Kenya Sugar Company

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