Safari Sevens returns following two-year hiatus

Courtesy

RUGBY Safari Sevens returns following two-year hiatus

Mark Kinyanjui 08:46 - 03.10.2023

The tournament last took place in 2021. It was set to return in 2022, but was canceled by the previous KRU board due to “unavoidable circumstances”.

After a two-year hiatus, the Safari Sevens tournament is set to return and will take place at the RFUEA grounds along Ngong Road, Nairobi from November 17th - 19th this year.

The tournament returns on the back of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) electing a new board as well as the Kenya national sevens team Shujaa’s qualification to the 2024 Paris Olympics.

These recent developments have set the stage for three days of non-stop action and excitement that will keep rugby fans on the edge of their seats. 

Speaking on this year’s tourney, KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai said the union is “proud” of the tournament’s return, which is sure to attract “international powerhouses”.

“We are proud to be back! The tournament will bring together top African teams, along with international powerhouses, for an unforgettable showdown that will make rugby history,” Mutai said in a statement.

“We have tapped key strategic partners that will re-establish the tournament back to its glory days while helping us achieve our commitment to developing world class rugby in Kenya.”

To co-manage and bring the experience to life, KRU has tapped leading events, project management, talent and creative agency Africa Centric Entertainment.

The company has helped elevate and deliver top class experiences at the biggest sporting events in Kenya from WRC Safari Rally, Nairobi City Marathon to the World Athletics Kip Keino Classic.

Commenting on the return of the tournament, the ACE Managing Director assured fans that they would help give them “a top class experience”.

 ‘’We are excited to be back in the mix! We are committed to delivering a top-class experience that will dazzle spectators with its unique blend of thrilling gameplay, elevated FAN experience, and world-class athleticism."

KRU will bank on the agency’s vast experience in managing large scale events, their vast network and stake in the Kenyan sports and entertainment industries as well as corporate Kenya to help elevate Safari Sevens to newer heights.

The Safari Sevens is open to international representative sides, professional and amateur clubs, invitational teams, university and school teams.

Shujaa will be using the tournament as a means of preparation as they continue strengthening their team to be competitive enough in time for the Olympic Games. 

The tournament last took place in 2021 at the Nyayo National Stadium. It was set to return in 2022, but was canceled by the previous KRU board due to “unavoidable circumstances”.

Tags: