This archive report was first published on 1 July 2019.
On June 28, 2019, Telkom Kenya announced the end of its 30-year partnership with the women's hockey club, Telkom, a move that will have far-reaching consequences for the sport in Kenya.
As the leading telecommunications firm in the country, Telkom Kenya's sponsorship had been instrumental in the club's success, with the team winning 10 Africa Club and 21 domestic league titles since its formation in 1989.
The partnership had also enabled the players to secure training grounds and allowances, giving them ample time to train and compete at the highest level.
However, the move will have a significant impact on the national women's hockey team, with Telkom Kenya contributing up to 90 per cent of the players.
With the club now seeking alternative sponsorship, the future of women's hockey in Kenya looks uncertain, and the Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) is under pressure to find new sources of income to support the sport.
As the sport struggles to come to terms with the loss of its main sponsor, it is clear that the departure of Telkom Kenya is a wake-up call for the hockey community in Kenya.
