On June 13, 2024, at Luzira, Nile Breweries Limited (NBL), under its flagship Nile Special brand, announced a two-year partnership with the Pool Association of Uganda. This partnership, valued at over UGX 1 billion, is an extension of the most recent partnership from 2023 and follows the previous partnership that ended in 2018. This new strategic alliance marks a major investment in the development of pool, covering both the prestigious National Open Championship and the newly added National League for both men and women.
Through this comprehensive sponsorship, Nile Special will hold exclusive beer branding rights at these PAU events for the next two years. NBL demonstrates its steadfast commitment to the sport by dedicating UGX 523 million annually to propel Ugandan pool forward. This commitment underscores Nile Special’s unwavering belief in the sport’s immense potential and the exceptional talent of Ugandan players, as well as recognizing the pool fans who follow the sport.
“We are incredibly excited to continue our long-standing partnership with the Pool Association of Uganda,” said Douglas Karema, Trade Marketing Executive at Nile Breweries. “Nile Special recognizes the immense potential of Ugandan pool and the exceptional talent of its players. This partnership signifies our commitment to propelling the sport to even greater heights. We are confident that this investment will not only elevate the National Open and National League but will also empower both players and clubs.”
Thanks to this sponsorship, the National League is poised for an exciting transformation. The format will be revamped to include 16 men’s and 8 women’s teams. The league will start in July 2024 and conclude with the League awards at the end of January 2025. Individual accolades will also be awarded to outstanding players, including the league’s top scorers and Most Valuable Players (MVPs).
“This partnership with Nile Special is a landmark achievement for Ugandan pool,” said Bob Trubish, Chairman of the Pool Association of Uganda. “Nile Breweries’ substantial investment will have a profound impact on the sport. The financial support, along with innovative initiatives like club facilitation and live streaming, will create a more vibrant and competitive environment for our players. We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Nile Special and showcase the best of Ugandan pool to the nation, the continent, and the wider world.”
The partnership introduces a groundbreaking initiative: all participating clubs will receive UGX 3 million worth of facilitation to bolster their operational capabilities. Additionally, Nile Special will brand uniforms for all participating teams to elevate the league’s image.
Desire Mugumisa, Head of Corporate Affairs at Next Media, the official broadcaster for the Nile Special National Open Pool Championship, said, “For us, championing Ugandan sport is not only about live broadcasting games but also about building the capacity of the industry to attract figures like this.”
### National League Key Dates and Information:
– *Round One:* Starts in July 2024
– *Round Two:* Resumes in November 2024
– *Awards Ceremony:* End of January 2025
### National Open Key Dates and Information:
– *Qualifiers:*
– *Start Date:* July 2024
– *Registration:* Purchase five bottles of Nile Special at selected qualifying centers.
– *Qualifying Spots:* Four men will advance to the regional stage.
– *Regionals:*
– *Start Dates:* August 2024
– *Locations:* Selected venues across Uganda
– *Cash Prizes:* Awarded to regional winners.
– *Qualifying Spots:* Top 3 at Men’s Regionals and Top 3 at Ladies’ Regionals will qualify for the Grand Finale.
– *Grand Finale:*
– *Date:* November 16, 2024
– *Participants:* 128 men and 32 women
– *Bonus:* All participants will receive Nile Special branded cues.
