Sunday 20 November 2022 saw the Kenya Rugby Union sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japanese organizations Hiraku Company Ltd, Seitoku Company Ltd and AAIC Partners Africa Ltd.
Commenting after the signing of the MoU, KRU Chief Executive Officer Aggrey Wabulwenyi said, “We are pleased to partner with these three organizations 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 those 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 Ltd said, “I am excited at making Kenya rugby players and coaches to have the opportunity, enjoy rugby and to open up their potential.And for me and my company, so happy to make new friends and understand the different culture!”
HiRAKU is a Business consultancy company based out of Japan that deals with Business content creation, Media appearances planning, business lectures, seminars, Education and Human resource development, Collaborative activities with companies and organizations, and designing and operationalization of a platform for solving social issues.
Also present at the function was Kohei Yuba, the Chief Executive Officer of Seitoku Company Ltd who said, “First, 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, Manager – East Africa for AAIC Partners Africa Ltd, a venture capital firm was also in attendance.
PHOTO CAPTION: From left, Kohei Yuba (CEO, Seitoku Co Ltd), Former Japan 15s captain and Hiraku CEO Toshiaki Hirose, KRU CEO Aggrey Wabulwenyi and Chiaki Hoshino,Manager -EA, AAIC Partners Company Ltd.
