Leading gaming company Mozzart Bet Kenya has increased its annual sponsorship of the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) from KSh10 million (€66,400) to KSh15 million (€99,600), marking a major milestone for both the men’s Wafalme Stars and women’s Malkia Strikers national teams.
The expanded partnership, unveiled at Mozzart Bet’s headquarters in Nairobi, will run until December 2026 and represents the third phase of collaboration between the federation and the betting firm since 2022. It’s also the first time the Wafalme Stars have been formally included in the sponsorship package.
A growing partnership for both teams
Mozzart Bet first partnered with KVF in June 2022, providing KSh10 million (€66,400) to support Malkia Strikers. The deal was renewed in 2023 and topped up with an extra KSh2 million (€13,300) for Olympic preparations ahead of the Paris 2024 qualifiers.
The new agreement extends the relationship for another 14 months and includes team preparations, international travel, and logistical costs for both squads.
“We are proud to be associated with a winning federation like KVF,” said Rolex Sirma, Director at Mozzart Bet Kenya. “This partnership goes beyond sponsorship — it’s about empowering athletes and building a lasting sports legacy.”
Federation praises Mozzart Bet’s commitment
KVF President Charles Nyaberi hailed the renewal as a vote of confidence in Kenyan volleyball.
“We are grateful to Mozzart Bet Kenya for expanding this partnership to include both Malkia Strikers and Wafalme Stars. Every phase of this journey has been remarkable, and the impact is visible,” Nyaberi said.
He also credited Mozzart Bet Kenya for its consistency and goodwill beyond contractual obligations.
“They have stood with us even outside the signed agreement. When the team was stranded in Brazil, Mozzart Bet came to our aid. When we lacked sponsorship for the Kenya Cup, they stepped in,” he added.
Nyaberi said the new funding would help Kenya’s national teams prepare for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with upcoming international training camps already planned.
Players and continental leaders react
Malkia Strikers captain Meldina Sande welcomed the renewed deal, saying it gives the team “peace of mind” to focus on performance.
“We are humbled by Mozzart Bet’s continued support, especially at a time when sports in Kenya face financial challenges,” Sande said.
Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB) President Bouchra Hajij, who attended the signing, praised Kenya’s volleyball legacy and Mozzart Bet’s role in sustaining it.
“Kenya remains the pride of African volleyball,” Hajij said. “The women’s team has won ten African titles — no small feat. But Kenya also has the talent for the men’s team to shine globally. We encourage more investment in Wafalme Stars and in youth development.”
Betting firms deepen community sports ties
Mozzart Bet Kenya, which operates over 100 retail outlets and has been licensed since 2017, continues to be one of the most active sponsors in local sports. The firm joins a growing number of licensed betting sites in Kenya that are funnelling part of their marketing and corporate social responsibility budgets into grassroots and national sports programmes.
Analysts say such collaborations help bridge the persistent funding gap in Kenyan sports while promoting regulated, responsible gaming.
