By Kuchineyi Lewis
In a timely boost to their Rugby World Cup qualification campaign, the Zimbabwe Sables have secured a crucial partnership with Alliance Health, the country’s leading health insurance provider.
The sponsorship, announced today at Alliance Health’s Alexandra Park head offices, is being hailed as a game-changing development ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup.
The landmark agreement will see Alliance Health provide full medical cover for the Sables, including injury treatment, general health care, and support during international assignments.
The announcement comes as the team ramps up preparations for next month’s Africa Cup tournament in Uganda, a competition that could finally secure Zimbabwe’s long-awaited return to the Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991.
For a team playing one of the most physically demanding sports, the sponsorship addresses a critical need.
“This is a contact sport and it really helps to have the best health support as we play.
“As the Sables, we are really happy to have Alliance Health on board,” said Sables’ hooker Brian Chiang.
The partnership arrives at a time of great momentum for the Sables who are coming off a historic undefeated 2024 season that saw them win Team of the Year at the Annual National Sports Awards, with head coach Pieter Benade named Coach of the Year and match official Precious Pazani recognized for excellence.
The endorsement from Alliance Health signals strong institutional confidence in the Sables’ potential.
“We saw this as a great opportunity to partner with people that represent our brand.
“This is one of the greatest teams Zimbabwe has put forward in recent years. We are delighted to have their backs as they go into battle,” said Alliance Health Managing Director Paul Dewar.
While Alliance Health has long supported rugby at grassroots and school levels, this step into elite national team sponsorship underlines its commitment to nurturing local talent through all stages of development.
“As Alliance Health, we’ve been especially impressed by the Sables’ performances and the healthy lifestyle they promote through Zimbabwean rugby,” added Dewar.
Sables Team Manager Tichafara Makwanya echoed those sentiments, emphasizing how the partnership alleviates the financial pressures of competing internationally.
“The international season has kicked off, and the boys will be travelling extensively. It’s a game changer knowing that all your health-related costs and welfare are catered for.
“The peace of mind this brings makes all the difference on the field,” he said.
With their preparations already underway, featuring an unbeaten run against Zambia and Botswana, the Sables will enter camp this Sunday as overseas-based players link up with the squad.
Backed by Alliance Health and buoyed by a wave of national optimism, the Sables now turn their sights to Uganda, hoping to secure a continental title and with it, a ticket to rugby’s biggest stage.
