By Eddah Waithaka
The 24th edition of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit officially launched today, setting the stage for six thrilling legs of high-octane rugby across Kenya.
Top sponsors SportPesa and KBL reaffirmed their commitment to growing the sport, while host clubs and Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) officials outlined their vision for an electrifying tournament.
A Platform for Talent and National Team Growth
Kenya Rugby Union’s Director of Rugby, Paul Odera, emphasized the circuit’s role in shaping the national teams.
“This tournament is not just about club competition, it’s a pathway for players to prove themselves for the Shujaa and Lionesses,” Odera said.
“Our national team coaches have set clear expectations, and we’re using data-driven selections to ensure only the best represent Kenya.”
KRU CEO Thomas Odundo echoed the sentiment, highlighting improved planning and partnerships to elevate the tournament’s quality.
Sponsors Double Down on Rugby Development
SportPesa, the title sponsor, pledged enhanced live streaming, LED screens, and a KSh 15 million talent development fund.
Willis Ojiambo, SportPesa’s representative, declared, “No one does sports sponsorships better than us. This year, we’re taking fan engagement and player exposure to the next level.”
Meanwhile, KBL’s Head of mainstream beer, Christine Kariuki celebrated rugby’s unifying power, stating, “Our brand stands for bringing people together, and this circuit embodies that spirit.”
Host Clubs Ready for Action
Nairobi’s Kenya Harlequins, defending champions and hosts of the Christie 7s, vowed to retain their title.
Club secretary Nekesa Were stressed the tournament’s financial importance, “This circuit funds our entire season. We’re proud to host for the 59th time and urge fans to pack the stands.”
Nekesa also reiterated the importance of supporting women’s rugby within the country by urging clubs to keep building their ladies’ teams
Newcomers Embu RFC received a warm welcome as they prepare to debut their leg, while Mombasa, Kabras, and Kisumu promised fierce contests.
Women’s Rugby Takes Center Stage
Four of six legs will feature women’s tournaments, a step toward full parity. KRU’s Chairperson Harriet Okatch called for greater investment, “Supporting our Lionesses is key to maintaining Kenya’s dominance in African rugby.”
Circuit Schedule
The Sportpesa7s will kick off with the Driftwood 7s on July 26th and 27th, followed by the Prinsloo 7s on August 2nd and 3rd. The action continues with the Christie 7s on August 16th and 17th, and then the Embu 7s on August 23rd and 24th.
The Kabeberi 7s will take place on September 6th and 7th, wrapping up the thrilling series with the Dala 7s on September 13th and 14th. Finally, the Safari 7s will be held from October 10th to 12th.
In Division One, the prize money rewards the winner with 100,000/=, while the runner-up receives 50,000/= and the third-place finisher earns 25,000/=.
Division Two champions take home 50,000/=, and in the women’s category, the winner claims 70,000/=, with the runner-up awarded 30,000/=.
On an overall scale, the tournament offers substantial prizes, the winner receives 300,000/=, the runner-up takes 150,000/=, and third place secures 100,000/=.
With national team stars set to feature, the SportPesa National 7s Circuit promises top-tier action as Kenya builds toward HSBC Sevens Series qualification.
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