Kenya sevens’ quest begins
As anticipation mounts for the upcoming Safari Sevens Rugby tournament, attention now turns on Kenya’s national teams, Shujaa and Lionesses, gearing up for an action-packed weekend at the Rugby Football Union of East Africa (RFUEA) grounds along Ngong Road, Nairobi.
Yesterday, the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Board, led by chairman Sasha Mutai, announced the conclusion of preparations for the three-day rugby bonanza scheduled for today to Sunday. “We’ve put in extensive work to prepare for Safari Sevens,” Mutai said while acknowledging the event’s significance in maintaining the tournament’s legacy, despite not quite matching the grandeur of the 2013 edition.
Mutai emphasised the tournament’s vital role in the development of rugby in Kenya, particularly as a platform to showcase both local and international talent.
“This year is particularly momentous as it kick-starts Shujaa’s journey back to the World Series and follows their Paris 2024 Olympics qualification,” Mutai stated.
“As a key preparatory event for the Paris 2024 Olympics, the tournament offers an invaluable platform for teams like Shujaa and the Lionesses to hone their skills for the international stage.”
With men’s teams including Shujaa, Morans, KCB, Uganda, and international powerhouses like Germany and Western Province, the tournament promises high-octane clashes. In the women’s category, Kenya’s Lionesses 1&2, alongside formidable opponents such as Uganda and Tuks Women, add an extra layer of excitement.
Corporate support for the event has been impressive, with sponsors such as the Ministry of Sports, Tusker, Coca Cola, and Samsung re-affirming their commitment to Kenyan rugby.
