What to expect as iconic Safari 7s returns to Nyayo Stadium

Kenya's Lionesses huddle during a past training event. (Photo: KRU/X)

By Erick Kariuki
Wednesday, October 8, 2025

The event will feature a diverse mix of teams, from international sides to local clubs, universities, and school teams, all competing for the prestigious Robin Cahill Trophy.

The Safari 7s is one of Africa’s biggest and most exciting rugby sevens tournaments.

Held annually in Nairobi, it brings together top rugby nations, professional clubs, and rising stars from around the world.

More To Read

Since its inception in 1996, the tournament has grown into a highlight of Kenya’s sports calendar, famed for its vibrant atmosphere, fast-paced rugby, and passionate fans.

The 27th edition will take place at Nyayo Stadium from October 10 to October 12, 2025.

Last year’s edition was the first to be held outside Nairobi at Machakos Stadium. It saw Kenya Shujaa win the men’s category and Costa Blanca Barbarians claim the women’s title.

This year, the tournament returns to Nyayo Stadium, its home in 2010 and 2011, after several years at the RFUEA Grounds.

The event will feature a diverse mix of teams, from international sides to local clubs, universities, and school teams, all competing for the prestigious Robin Cahill Trophy.

Kenya will be represented by four teams: Shujaa, Morans, Lionesses, and Cubs.

Shujaa, co-captained by George Ooro and Samuel Asati, includes experienced and skilful players such as Kevin Wekesa, Vincent Onyala, Dennis Abukuse, Gabby Ayimba, Nygel Amaitsa, Christian Ojwang, Patrick Odongo, Jackson Siketi, Floyd Wabwire, Festus Shiasi, and William Mwanji. They are expected to thrill home fans with their speed, teamwork, and attacking flair.

Kenya’s second men’s team, the Morans, led by John Okoth, features promising young players including Brian Mutua, Elvis Olukusi, Clinton Amukachi, Barnabas Owuor, Eugene Ojiambo, Daniel Kipchirchir, Rayvon Ambale, David Nyangige, Elton Amalemba, Arnold Agonda, Victor Mola, and Arnold Muita. Many will be making their Safari 7s debut, keen to impress and secure future national team spots.

In the women’s category, the Kenya Lionesses aim to make a strong statement with players like Naomi Amuguni, Charity Nillah, Moreen Muritu, Christabel Lindo, Sheila Chajira, Sinaida Nyachio, Edith Nariaka, Faith Achieng, Marvel Oswago, Faith Livoi, Janet Okello, and Freshia Awinoc.

They will be joined by the youthful Cubs squad, representing the next generation of women’s rugby stars, featuring Nelly Chikombe, Ann Akinyi, Gloria Matasio, Maureen Chebet, Diana Mideva, Maxine Abuga, Ann Njeri, Ann Namunyak, Angel Salamba, Refa Ochando, Merisha Negesia, and Tracy Msungu.

Head Coach Kevin Mwema believes this year’s Safari 7s will showcase talent while building depth in the national teams.

“This year’s Safari 7s is not just about competition but also about growing the game and testing new combinations. The mix of experience and new players gives us balance, and fans can expect a great weekend of rugby,” he said.

Alongside the Kenyan teams, international sides including Uganda, Zambia, Tunisia, Belgium, Zimbabwe, Reunion Rugby, Costa Blanca, Shogun Rugby, French Renegades, Apache 7s, KCB Rugby, and UK Select will compete, adding global flair and raising the level of competition.