Rugby returns to Machakos as Shujaa aims for Safari 7s three-peat

Shujaa captain Vincent Onyala battles for the ball with Samurai Baraccudas players during the 2023 Safari Sevens tournament at RFUEA ground last year. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Shujaa are looking for a successive three-peat victory in the 2024 Safari Sevens tournament slated for Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos on October 11-13.

Other already confirmed men's teams are the Kenya Morans, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Qatar and UK sides; Shogun Rugby, Tropic 7s and the Mayotte.

The confirmed women's line up has defending champions Uganda, Kenya Lionesses, Kenya Cubs, Zimbabwe, Tunisia, Tropic 7s, Spanish Barbarians and the Shogun.

"It was great being the champion of the tournament in my debut last year, we are preparing well and we are hopeful to successfully defend the trophy in Machakos," Shujaa fly half Nygel Amaitsa told Standard Sports.

"I had five tries last season, this year I'm aiming to double that effort in the competition."

His sentiments were echoed by scrum half Samuel Asati who also has guided Shujaa to victories since his debut in the in the contest in 2022.

"My plan is to use the event to step up my fitness for other future international outings lined up for Kenya Shujaa. I hope to add grip to the team the same way I have been doing so in the last two editions," said Asati.

Freshia Awino and Faith Livoi are also inspired ahead of the tournament after guiding the Kenya Lionesses to a 63-19 victory against Madagascar in a test match held at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi last Friday.

"I featured for Kenya Cubs in the Safari 7s last year where we emerged third overall, this year my hope is to play for the Kenya Lionesses, I believe I have what it takes to propel them to victory," said Awino who features for the Nakuru RFC locally.

Livoi believes her utility role will add depth into the Kenya Lionesses who finished second behind Uganda Cranes in the tournament last year.

"This year, we have promised to bring our 'A' to Machakos, the women's trophy has to remain in Kenya," declared Livoi.

The tournament received a Sh22 million boost from Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) in Nairobi yesterday to cater for logistics.

Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) chairman Sasha Mutai welcomed the partnership with the sponsors acknowledging the significant role the support has played in the growth of Kenya's rugby over the years.

"The support has been very instrumental in elevating the tournament to the level it enjoys today," Muitai noted.

"Organising the Safari Sevens is no small feat. We are welcoming teams from across the globe, and there are many aspects of the event that require substantial financial support. This sponsorship will go a long way in covering key costs, from team logistics to ensuring top-quality entertainment for the fans. Our aim is to create an atmosphere that rugby enthusiasts will cherish forever," he added.