After an entertaining season opener at the Prinsloo 7s in Nakuru, attention now shifts to Kisumu for the second leg of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit, the Dala 7s.
The 23rd edition of the tournament will take place from August 1-2 at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, with Division Two matches hosted at Kisumu National Polytechnic.
A total of 40 teams will compete across Division One, Division Two and the women’s competition.
Whether you’re a rugby enthusiast or simply looking for a weekend experience, here are reasons the Dala 7s should be on your calendar.
National Sevens Circuit title race heats up
The Dala 7s arrives with plenty at stake after KCB Rugby claimed the opening leg at the Prinsloo 7s, defeating Kabras Sugar 19-12 in the final to move three points clear at the top of the Division One standings.
The bankers return to Kisumu looking to continue the form that saw them dominate the 2025 season, when they amassed a record 126 points, reached all six Cup finals, won four tournaments and secured a fifth overall National Sevens Circuit title.
Kabras Sugar, Strathmore Leos, Menengai Oilers and hosts Kisumu RFC will all be aiming to close the gap in what promises to be another competitive weekend.
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Mouth-watering fixtures await
This year’s tournament brings together 40 teams across three competitions, division one and division two each feature 16 teams, while the women’s category has eight teams competing with fans gettting the opportunity to watch emerging and seasoned players with the official pools announced setting up several intriguing clashes.
More than just rugby
The Dala 7s has grown into one of the Lake Region’s biggest sporting and social events, combining rugby with Kisumu’s vibrant culture driving sports tourism and showcasing the city on a national stage.
Away from the action on the pitch, fans can expect performances by Ben Soul and Odongo Swag, while DJs Teargas, Festa, Daqchild, Ves, Dimore and Gordo, alongside hype men Ballo and Kish, will provide entertainment throughout the weekend.
The tournament will also feature a family-friendly fan zone, opportunities to meet some of Kenya’s biggest rugby stars for photos and autographs, and the lively atmosphere that has made the event one of the highlights of the sevens calendar.
A venue with championship memories
Mamboleo holds special significance for KCB Rugby. It was at the same venue last season that the bankers defeated Kabras Sugar 12-5 in a rain-soaked final to lift the 2025 Dala 7s title and seal the overall National Sevens Circuit crown.
One year later, they return as defending Dala 7s and circuit champions, hoping to strengthen their grip on the 2026 standings, while the chasing pack seek to prevent another KCB triumph.
Tickets for the tournament are available via www.tikohub.com/events/517, with advance Regular Day Passes priced at KSh500, VIP Passes at KSh2,500, and Parking Passes at KSh300.
