A Pool Tournament, Bottled Water, and a CEO Called Bloko: The Aquadel Story That’ll Quench Your Thirst for Hope

Elsie Makena takes a shot during the Aquadel Drinking Water Sponsored Pool Tournament. Photo/Felix Kinyua. 

This past Saturday, I found myself attending something refreshingly different — a pool table tournament in the heart of Makutano. No, not your usual pub crawl disguised as a "community event." This was a well-organized, feel-good, cue-cracking tournament brought to life by none other than Aquadel Drinking Water — a brand that's not just hydrating bodies, but also uplifting spirits and communities.

Now dear readers, as you know, I’m a firm believer in giving people their flowers while they can still smell them — preferably before they dry out and become a dusty bouquet on some poorly lit shelf. So allow me to tip my hat (and water bottle) to Mr. Patrick Bundi Rungu, the CEO of Aquadel, known affectionately in the streets as "Bloko."

Aquadel CEO Mr. Patrick Bundi Rungu Popularly known as "Bloko". Photo/Patrick Bundi. 

And let me tell you, Bloko is no ordinary CEO. He’s the kind of man who walks into a room and doesn’t announce his presence with a trumpet or a title — his humility does the talking. I met him at the tournament, and I swear if you didn’t know better, you’d think he was just another guy helping set up chairs. That level of modesty is almost extinct in our current breed of suit-wearing, ego-carrying executives.

But beyond his character, Mr. Bundi has a mission — one bottle, one game, one youth at a time. Through Aquadel Drinking Water, he’s proving that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) doesn’t need a big launch event, a red carpet, or a PR firm from Nairobi. Sometimes, all it needs is a pool table, some good-hearted locals, and the desire to give back.

The tournament saw 24 participants, battling it out in a knockout format. And just when things were heating up — enter Kenya Power, switching off the lights like a jealous ex. But not even a blackout could dim the passion and energy in that room. The games continued, phones were used as flashlights, and spirits stayed high — all thanks to the unwavering commitment of the Aquadel team.

At stake? A Ksh 1,000 prize for the winner and Ksh 500 for the runner-up. It might not sound like much in corporate circles, but in these days of William economics, that’s a serious incentive — especially for young people trying to stay away from the lure of crime, drugs, and matatu betting syndicates.

But here’s the twist: it wasn’t just about winning or losing. It was about the vibe — people coming together, socializing, networking, laughing, and of course, hydrating (shout out to the sponsors). For many in attendance, it wasn’t just a tournament; it was a breath of fresh air — and yes, a sip of clean, crisp, best-in-Africa Aquadel.

And then there was Elsie Makena — the only female contestant in a sea of 23 men. Ladies and gentlemen, this queen didn’t just show up, she showed out. With grace, precision, and a swag that left the boys humbled, Elsie proved that women can dominate the pool table — heels or not. So next time, ladies, if you’ve got the game, call Aquadel. They’ll slot you right in.

But wait, there’s more. This wasn’t a one-off stunt to score social points. It’s the second tournament Aquadel has sponsored, and according to the management, they’re planning to bring a team from Nairobi to face off with local talent. Now that’s how you turn a hobby into a regional league and CSR into something that actually matters.

Even more impressively, Aquadel has created employment opportunities for young people in Meru — giving them not just jobs, but hope. In a country where youth unemployment is discussed more than it's addressed, Aquadel is quietly doing the work — no press releases, no hashtags, just action.

As I wrap up, allow me to say this: Mr. Bundi, you may call your efforts “small,” but what you’re doing is seismic. You’re setting a bar many will struggle to reach. You’ve shown us that generosity doesn’t have to come with a billboard — sometimes it’s just a bottle of water, a pool table, and a heart that beats for the community.

So to you, my dear readers: next time you reach for bottled water in the supermarket, pick Aquadel. Not just because it’s premium and refreshing, but because with every bottle, you’re supporting real community impact — one cue shot at a time.

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**#DrinkAquadel #SupportLocal #CSRWithSwag #PoolForProgress**

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About the Author:

Felix Kinyua is a freelance journalist with a background in Communication and Media, and a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration. He’s passionate about storytelling that uplifts communities and challenges the status quo — often with a dash of wit and satire.