The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has officially announced the dates for the much-anticipated 2024 Safari 7s tournament, a premier annual 7s competition on the continental rugby calendar.
Set to take place from 11th to 13th October, the event promises to deliver electrifying rugby action.
“This year’s tournament will run from 11-13 October in Nairobi. The Safari 7s was first held in 1996 and has since grown in popularity, attracting top rugby talent and large crowds of enthusiastic fans. Over the years, it has become more than just a sporting event, encompassing a vibrant festival atmosphere with music, food, and cultural celebrations,” KRU announced.
Kenya 7s players. Photo/KRU
Last year’s Safari 7s marked a triumphant return to the schedule after a hiatus in 2022. In an epic showdown at the RFUEA Grounds, Kenya 7s secured a thrilling 19-0 victory over Samurai 7s in the final, retaining their title.
Led by head coach Kevin Wambua, the Shujaa squad entered the final undefeated, eyeing a historic back-to-back title. Their opponents, Samurai, aimed to reclaim the championship they last held in 2019 with a 21-14 victory over Shujaa.
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The final match saw Shujaa’s Speedster Patrick Odongo making an impactful start by scoring the opening try, setting the tone for his team’s performance. Despite maintaining a slim lead at halftime, Shujaa intensified their efforts in the second half, with Kevin Wekesa extending their lead to 12-0.
Capitalizing on a numerical advantage after Samurai were reduced to six players, Shujaa further solidified their dominance, with Odongo scoring another try.
The team’s cohesive play and strategic prowess ensured they kept Samurai at bay, securing a well-deserved victory and maintaining an impressive unbeaten streak of 12 matches.
Kenya 7s (Shujaa) winger Patrick Odongo receives medal. Photo/Screengrab
In the women’s category, the Uganda Lady Cranes stunned the audience with a remarkable 15-12 win over the Kenya Lionesses, clinching the Safari 7s women’s title.
Uganda’s outstanding performance earned them a third-place finish overall, while the Kenya Morans claimed fifth place with a convincing 26-0 victory.
