SportPesa National 7s Circuit Returns with Bold Vision for Rugby Growth Across Kenya
Posted by JIM MWANDA
The 24th edition of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit was officially launched today, promising a thrilling rugby season across six host cities in Kenya. With strong backing from title sponsor SportPesa and Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), the circuit is set to offer not only electrifying matches but also a platform for nurturing national talent.
Nairobi Kenya
23rd July 2025
The 24th edition of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit was officially launched today, promising a thrilling rugby season across six host cities in Kenya. With strong backing from title sponsor SportPesa and Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), the circuit is set to offer not only electrifying matches but also a platform for nurturing national talent.
Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Director of Rugby Paul Odera emphasized the event’s role in shaping the Shujaa and Lionesses squads through data-driven selections, while CEO Thomas Odundo noted improved planning and partnerships that aim to enhance the overall tournament experience.
SportPesa reaffirmed its commitment to growing rugby by unveiling enhanced fan experiences such as live streaming and LED screens, alongside a KSh 15 million fund for talent development.
“No one does sports sponsorships better than us,” said SportPesa’s Willis Ojiambo, underscoring the brand’s mission to elevate both player visibility and fan engagement. KBL echoed the sentiment, with Christine Kariuki, Head of Mainstream Beer, describing rugby as a unifying force that aligns with the company’s values of community and celebration.
Host clubs are equally prepared, with defending champions Kenya Harlequins set to stage the 59th edition of the Christie 7s. Club secretary Nekesa Were highlighted the event’s financial impact and called on all clubs to prioritize the development of women’s rugby. Newcomer Embu RFC joins an elite roster of hosts that includes Mombasa, Kabras, and Kisumu, all pledging to bring fierce competition and community spirit to the circuit. Notably, four of the six legs will feature women’s tournaments, signaling progress toward gender equality in the sport—an effort championed by KRU Chairperson Harriet Okatch.
The circuit kicks off with the Driftwood 7s on July 26–27 and concludes with the Dala 7s in Kisumu on September 13–14, before the prestigious Safari 7s from October 10–12. Division One winners will earn KSh 100,000, with overall circuit champions walking away with KSh 300,000. The women’s winners will claim KSh 70,000, emphasizing KRU’s growing commitment to female participation. With high stakes and national team aspirations on the line, the 2024 SportPesa National 7s Circuit promises to be a defining chapter in Kenya’s rugby journey.
