MelBet Uganda Friday announced taking on the sponsorship of StarTimes Uganda Premier League club, Kyetume FC in a multimillion deal to see the Mukono side facilitated throughout of the 2020/21 Uganda Premier League season that set to commence on the 3rdDecember 2020.
Kyetume football club finished 11th with 30 points from 25 games last season after the league ended prematurely due to the coronavirus crisis that forced a halt on all football activities in Uganda.
Having faced some downturns during the season and now the COVID crisis, the club will benefit from MelBet’s noble gesture of supporting Uganda Sports through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Speaking at the event to announce the deal held at MelBet head office in Nakawa, Melbet Uganda Chief, Andrew Kamwesigye,said they will support Kyetume FC on the acquisition of the season’s match and training kits, Welfare of players, talent development and other operational expenses.
The Partnership has been defined as a marriage that will see the two parties work together for the long term on an undisclosed amount inclusive of a revenue share.
“It’s not a coincidence but a choice. Kyetume has ambitions to win the league. We chose them basing on the style of play and aspirations,” Kamwesigye said of the partnership, adding: “It’s a marriage. It’s an open agreement and we hope to win together.”
Yasin Asimmwe, Melbet Uganda Chief Operations Officernoted that the fast growing betting company chose Kyetume basing on its performance over time.
“As they grow, we have decided to grow with them. Kyetume’s performance has been impressive. This partnership will see the club benefit from our revenue share of up to 30%,” Asiimwe said, adding: “It’s a long term partnership and the more Ugandans play (place bet), the more Kyetume FC benefits. This is our way of supporting local football.” Reports indicate that the club is set to benefit from US$30, 000 (Shs110.9m) to develop Nakisunga Ssaza Ground, Club’s home ground. The deal also means Melbet Uganda appears on the front part of Kyetume FC.
Speaking at the official launch of the 2020/21 UPL jersey, Kyetume FC Chief Executive Officer, Reuben Mubiru, assured Melbet Uganda of returns.
“We have been trying to roast, peel, prepare and cook but today we formalize this partnership. We are going to give you the mileage you deserve. We are resisting, winning and moving forward,” he said, as his Technical Director, Jackson Mayanja nodded in approval.
Mubiru, however, advised other companies to come in and support other clubs so “we all win”.
