Hima Cement has committed Shs250 million to Makerere University rugby club Impis in a two-year sponsorship deal that will see the side rebranded as Hima Impis.

The partnership, unveiled at the club’s home ground, the Graveyard, on Thursday, marks the revival of a long-standing relationship between Hima Cement and one of Uganda’s oldest rugby clubs.

Under the agreement, Shs150 million will be provided in direct financial support, while Shs100 million will go towards infrastructure improvements and media activations, including the renovation of the club’s pavilion.

Hima Cement Head of Marketing Philemon Mubiru said the renewed partnership is part of the company’s broader commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates.

“With the company having been around for about 50 years and contributing to the development of the country, we feel it is only right to give back to the different communities in which we operate,” Mubiru said.

“Today, we are here to reconnect and rekindle our long-term partnership with Impis. We believe in what the club represents and the role it can play in the development of sport, particularly rugby.”

Mubiru said Impis’ strong following, coupled with their impressive return to the top flight last season, made the club an attractive partner.

Impis returned to Uganda’s top division last season and immediately made an impact, picking up notable victories against established sides including Heathens and Kobs.

“Impis has a significant student following, and there is great optimism about what the club can achieve. Their first season back in the top flight was encouraging, and they managed to take a number of important scalps, including Heathens and Kobs,” he added.

Impis vice patron Phillip Katumba said the sponsorship has provided renewed belief within the club and created a stronger foundation for its ambitions.

“This partnership has strengthened our resolve, boosted our morale and created an environment in which rugby can thrive,” Katumba said.

“Through this sponsorship, the spirit of the sport is elevated, and communities are inspired. It gives us the confidence and support to continue building Impis into a competitive club while maintaining the values that rugby stands for.”

Katumba also said the partnership sends an important message to the players and the wider Makerere community.

“To the players, this is more than a sponsorship. It is a reminder that their sweat, sacrifice and effort are recognised and valued,” he said.

“To the wider community, this is proof that rugby is not just a game, but a force that unites, uplifts and builds character.”

Katumba described the return of Hima Cement as a significant moment for the club, which has built a loyal following among current students, alumni, former players and rugby enthusiasts across the country.

“We celebrate this sponsorship because we believe it could be the missing piece we have been looking for,” he said. “It gives us the platform to strengthen the club, support our players and create an environment where Impis can continue to grow.”

The relationship between Hima Cement and Impis dates back to 2002, with the company previously supporting club activities, team kits and the annual Makerere International Rugby 10s tournament, popularly known as the Hima-Mak 10s.