Nile Breweries Limited (NBL) and the Pool Association of Uganda (PAU) have extended their partnership in a two-year deal worth UGX 1 billion (USD 275,000). The agreement, announced at the Nile Special offices in Luzira, builds upon the successful collaboration established in 2023.
Boost for National Pool
This renewed sponsorship marks a significant investment in Ugandan pool. NBL will commit UGX 523 million (USD 145,000) annually to the PAU for the next two years.
Notably, the partnership will encompass both the prestigious Nile Special National Pool Open Championship and the newly revamped National Pool League for men and women.
Long-Standing Partnership
Nile Breweries boasts a history of supporting Ugandan pool, with their initial sponsorship running from 2010 to 2018. The partnership was temporarily halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic but successfully resumed in 2023.
Quotes
Douglas Karema, Trade Marketing Executive at Nile Breweries, highlighted the mutually beneficial nature of the sponsorship: “Pool is a natural fit for Nile Breweries, as it’s a popular bar activity that generates sales. We believe this investment will not only elevate the National Open and National League but also empower players and clubs.”
Bob Trubish, Chairman of the PAU, expressed his appreciation for the inclusion of the National League: “This sponsorship is a landmark for Ugandan pool. Many have inquired about Nile Breweries supporting the league, and their commitment fulfills a long-standing request.”
“On an annual basis we are going to be giving out 72 millions to each club to facilitate the league activities” Bob revealed.
Ambrose Tasobya, Chairman of the National Council of Sports (NCS), representing the Minister of State for Sports, commended Nile Breweries’ contribution: “As a council we work to create the enabling environment and to make sure that you can do what you love doing most and each time I come to your event the desire to have the arenas across the country burns in me even more,” Tasobya stated.
Key Dates and Player Rewards
National League:
- Round One: Starts July 2024
- Round Two: Resumes November 2024
- Awards Ceremony: End of January 2025
National Open:
- Qualifiers: July 2024
- Regionals: August 2024 (select venues)
- Grand Finale: 16th November 2024 (Lugogo Indoor Stadium) – 128 Men & 32 Women
Player Rewards:
- National Open Champions (Men & Women): Brand new cars from Nile Special + cash prizes
- National Open Runners-Up (Men & Women): Standard pool tables + cash prizes
Photo Credit: Gonzaga Kakeeto
