Namwamba has sent Kenya 7s a motivational message ahead of the upcoming Madrid playoff tournament, which could see the side return to the world circuit at the first time of asking.
Sports CS Ababu Namwamba has expressed his strong support for Kenya's 7s national team, Shujaa, as they gear up for the HSBC 7s playoffs in Madrid, Spain, from May 31 to June 2.
Shujaa has shown remarkable performance in the Challenger Series, aiming to conclude their journey with a promotion to the World Rugby 7s Series.
Placed in Pool B, Shujaa will compete against Chile, Samoa, and hosts Spain. CS Namwamba extended heartfelt wishes to the team, encouraging them to maintain the same courage, determination, and spirit that has brought them this far.
“Your dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport have already made us incredibly proud, and we believe in your ability to achieve great success in this crucial playoff," Namwamba stated. "You have consistently demonstrated exceptional talent and teamwork.
09:00 - 31.05.2024
Kenya Sevens: World Series return on the mind for Shujaa at Sevens Grand Final in Madrid
Shujaa have little margin for error as they begin the World Series promotion-relegation playoff keen for an immediate top-flight return following last year’s relegation.
"As you take to the field, remember that you carry with you the hopes and dreams of every Kenyan.
"Play with the same courage, determination, and unity that have brought you this far. We are confident that your skill and resilience will shine through, and we look forward to celebrating your victories. Know that the entire country is behind you, cheering you on every step of the way. Go forth and make Kenya proud!”
The stage is indeed set, and Shujaa is ready to reclaim their place on the World Rugby Sevens Series circuit. Their journey has been challenging but rewarding, with a gold medal in Dubai, a hard-fought bronze in Montevideo, and a fifth-place finish in Germany during the Challenger Series.
Facing formidable opponents Chile, Samoa, and Spain, Shujaa aims to be among the top four teams to secure a slot in the HSBC Sevens Series.
14:30 - 30.05.2024
HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series: Why Shujaa players will conceal sponsor name on their jerseys in Madrid
Kenya Sevens are in Madrid for the promotion-relegation playoff this weekend, but they will not give their sponsors the much-needed visibility due to a surprising reason.
The Kevin Wambua-coached side will rely on their experience, flair, and teamwork to overcome these challenges and establish Kenya's presence firmly on the global stage.
This tournament is not just about winning; it's about making history, inspiring future generations, and proving that unwavering belief can lead to great achievements.
In compliance with Spanish laws prohibiting shirt sponsorships by betting firms, Shujaa will tape over their sponsor’s name during the matches.
The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) explained, “Spanish laws prohibit shirt sponsorships by betting firms. Consequently, our jerseys will have our shirt sponsor’s name taped out during the HSBC Sevens in Madrid in respect of these laws.”
14:00 - 29.05.2024
One change for Shujaa as they step up preparations for make-or-break weekend HSBC Sevens playoffs
Kenya draft in Mwamba's Brian Mutua for weekend Madrid playoff, the tournament set to decide whether they will return to the World Series at the first time of asking.
Shujaa's campaign will begin with a match against Samoa on Friday at 6:25 pm, followed by a game against hosts Spain at 10:18 pm. Their final pool match against Chile will take place on Saturday at 8:18 pm.
With the support of the entire nation behind them, Shujaa is set to take on the world and prove that Kenya belongs among the elite in rugby sevens.