•KRU chief executive officer Aggrey Wabulwenyi said, “We are pleased to partner with these three organisations to improve the fortunes of the game in Kenya.
• Japan also hosted the 2019 Rugby World Cup where they reached the quarterfinals.
Kenya Rugby Union have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japanese organisations as they seek to take rugby to the next level.
The Japanese organisations include Hiraku Company, Seitoku Company and AAIC Partners Africa
KRU chief executive officer Aggrey Wabulwenyi said, “We are pleased to partner with these three organisations to improve the fortunes of the game in Kenya.
"We are particularly looking at using this partnership to develop pathways that will see the transition of talent from schools through the Prescott Cup and related competitions to the higher tiers of the game at Kenya Cup and national team levels at the Simbas and Shujaa.”
“This partnership will also be vital in rewarding the academic prowess of talented players deserving of the opportunity to further their studies in Japan,” he added.
“It is also an opportunity for Japanese firms based within the region to aid in the growth and development of the game across all strands, inclusive of the Kenya Cup," he said in conclusion.
Speaking at the same function, former Japan captain Toshiaki Hirose, who is also the chief executive officer of Hiraku Company said: “I am excited to be part of the project that will grant Kenya rugby players and coaches an opportunity to enjoy rugby and open up their potential. I am also happy to have made new friends.
Also present at the function was Kohei Yuba, the chief executive officer of Seitoku Company.
He said: “I am very happy to have concluded the MOU. However, this is just our first step, and I am looking forward to taking action with KRU in the future.
Chiaki Hoshino, the manager of East Africa for AAIC Partners Africa Ltd, a venture capital firm was also in attendance.
Japan are currently one of the biggest movers in World Rugby and currently sit 10th in the latest rankings. They also hosted the 2019 Rugby World Cup where they reached the quarterfinals.