Safaricom has committed KES 5 million to sponsor Kenya's Special Olympics National Team ahead of the 2019 World Games in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, scheduled for March 14–21. The funding includes KES 4 million in cash and KES 1 million in-kind support.
The Kenyan delegation, comprising 72 athletes, 20 coaches, and 5 chaperones, will compete in sports such as football, swimming, athletics, and cycling. This marks the first time the event will be held in the Middle East/North Africa region, with competitions scheduled during the local late winter/early spring.
Sylvia Mulinge, Safaricom's Chief Customer Officer, emphasized the company's commitment to inclusivity, stating, "We celebrate diversity and believe in providing equal career opportunities for all. Our support extends beyond hiring individuals with disabilities to empowering them through sports and professional growth." The sponsorship follows Safaricom's previous initiatives, including backing for deaf athletes in Kenya.
Key athletes include 2017 Winter Games gold medalist Nicholas Korir Kipchumba and 2015 Summer Games gold medalist Onesmus Munyao Mutinda. Other notable participants are 2015 gold medalist Irene Nzilani and bronze medalist Laureen Dessy Aluoch Ochieng'. Susan Masila, National Director of Special Olympics Kenya, praised the partnership, stating, "We are confident in our team's capabilities and grateful for this critical support to achieve success."
