SHA partners with KRU to provide health cover for Kenya rugby teams at Safari 7s

SHA partners with KRU to provide health cover for Kenya rugby teams at Safari 7s

The collaboration aims to promote health, wellness, and environmental sustainability through sports — a move that marks a new chapter at the intersection of athletics and public health.

The Social Health Authority (SHA) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), stepping in as the official health partner for Kenya’s national rugby teams during the upcoming Safari 7s Tournament, scheduled for October 10–12, 2025, at Nyayo Stadium.

The collaboration aims to promote health, wellness, and environmental sustainability through sports — a move that marks a new chapter at the intersection of athletics and public health.

Under the agreement, all registered rugby players will be enrolled under SHA, granting them access to comprehensive health cover that includes surgeries, injury treatment, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation, among other benefits.

Several players have already benefited from SHA’s medical support, receiving care that has enabled them to continue their professional careers — a significant step in protecting athletes from the burden of costly healthcare.

During the three-day tournament, SHA will provide ambulances, emergency medical cover, and health awareness activities under the theme “Play Well, Live Well.”

Beyond emergency response, the organisation will also lead health education and community awareness efforts among players and fans, reinforcing its mission to promote wellness through sport.

Health awareness campaigns

SHA and KRU plan to extend their partnership beyond the Safari 7s through health awareness campaigns, community outreach initiatives, and wellness programmes throughout the 2025 rugby season — ensuring health remains at the centre of Kenya’s sporting agenda.

To commemorate the launch, both organisations led a tree-planting exercise ahead of Mazingira Day on October 10, 2025, underscoring their shared commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible sporting practices.

SHA noted that the partnership represents a long-term investment in athlete welfare and community health, aligning with its broader mission of moving Kenya closer to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Meanwhile, preparations are in top gear for the 27th edition of the Safari 7s, which will feature a diverse mix of teams — including international sides, local clubs, universities, and schools — all vying for the prestigious Robin Cahill Trophy.

Kenya will field four teams — Shujaa, Morans, Lionesses, and Cubs — representing different tiers of national rugby. Shujaa, led by co-captains George Ooro and Samuel Asati, will headline the home contingent, blending experience, youth, and flair in pursuit of silverware on home soil.

Reader Comments

Trending

Popular Stories This Week

Stay ahead of the news! Click ‘Yes, Thanks’ to receive breaking stories and exclusive updates directly to your device. Be the first to know what’s happening.