Corporates have continued showering Olympic gold medalist Stephen Kiprotich with offers.

Mukwano Industries is the latest in a long list of companies that want to be associated with the man who won Uganda's first gold at the prestigious games since 1972.

Kiprotich will serve as an ambassador of one of Mukwano's brands -- Aqua Sipi water.

He will also be a representative of the Mukwano Group's sponsored sports events. Mukwano Industries (U) Limited -- Beverages Division recently unveiled its Aqua Sipi mineral water in a newly shaped bottle alongside a new full colour label.

At the contract signing ceremony with Kiprotich held at the Mukwano complex recently, Tony Gadhoke, Chief Executive Officer of the Mukwano Group praised the athlete for teaming up with the industry.

New partnership

"We decided to partner with Stephen owing to his winning performance," Gadhoke remarked.

"He is an embodiment of a winner's strength, energy and performance, which can be obtained from every single drop of Aqua Sipi water."

In August, Mukwano Group contributed $10,000 (sh26m) towards the Vision Group led Kiprotich Cash Drive.

The runner thanked the firm for the gesture. He promised to promote the Aqua Sipi brand among sportsmen, the youth and households in East Africa and beyond.

"We need companies like Mukwano to endorse sports in this country and support athletes," Kiprotich added.

"I am proud to be the face of Aqua Sipi and will emulate the quality of the products by striving to bring more glory and pride to this country in form of medals."

A total of sh200m was collected for Kiprotich in the cash drive. The money came from individuals and companies as a reward for the runner's gold winning display.

This followed a sh200m cash offer by President Yoweri Museveni.

Bekele survives

Belgian runner Atelaw Bekele, the 2011 European cross-country champion, has escaped a doping suspension despite missing three drugs tests, the country's anti-doping body (VDT) said.

Bekele risked a two-year ban after missing the third test on February 8 in Ethiopia, but the VDT decided against punishment "because it was not wilful negligence."