The 27th edition of the Safari Sevens concluded on a high note at Nyayo National Stadium, with Kenya’s national rugby sevens teams, Shujaa and the Lionesses, clinching their respective titles in a thrilling display of skill and resilience.
Shujaa secured their fourth consecutive men’s title with a 14-7 victory over Shogun, while the Lionesses reclaimed the women’s crown with a nail-biting 14-10 win against Uganda’s Lady Cranes. The three-day tournament, held from October 10 to 12, showcased 20 teams and marked Kenya’s first hosting since 2021, reigniting local rugby fervor.
The victory celebrations were a spectacle in themselves, with both teams posing triumphantly on the podium under the iconic Safari Sevens 2025 Champions arch, surrounded by confetti, fireworks, and a sea of cheering fans. The event, supported by sponsors like SportPesa and Kenya Airways, highlighted the growing commercial appeal of rugby in Kenya. Social media buzzed with pride, as the Kenya Rugby Union shared vibrant images capturing the teams lifting their trophies, a testament to the nation’s sporting unity and talent.
Safari Sevens, a cornerstone of Kenyan rugby since its inception in 1996, continues to be a vital platform for boosting sports tourism and inspiring youth participation. This year’s event underscored the rising profile of women’s rugby in East Africa, with the Lionesses’ success against regional rivals adding a new layer of excitement. The tournament’s return to Nyayo Stadium after a hiatus drew significant crowds, reinforcing its status as a cultural and economic highlight for the country.
As Kenya prepares for international competitions, the Safari Sevens victory sets a promising tone for the continued growth of rugby in the region.
