Why Kabras Sugar and Oilers are changing Kenya's rugby landscape

Kabras Sugar fans led by Brian Omondi (flag) rally their team during the Kenya Cup final against KCB ion Kakamega. [Washington Onyango, Standard]

For the last three years, Kabras Sugar RFC have been an unstoppable force in Kenyan rugby.

The Kakamega-based outfit has yet again booked a place in the Enterprise Cup finals and is on course to host the Kenya Cup final for the sixth straight year running, extending their dominance in the country's top-tier rugby competitions.

Their back-to-back victories over arch-rivals KCB Rugby, including last weekend's semi-final win, cement their status as a team built on excellence, investment, and long-term vision.

So, why has it always been Kabras for the past decade?

Kabras Sugar's sustained dominance is not by chance but rather a product of strategic investment in player welfare, infrastructure, and grassroots development.

The sugar men's rise to rugby prominence can be attributed to a well-thought-out development model.

Since their promotion to the Kenya Cup in 2014, the club has steadily grown into a powerhouse, backed by West Kenya Sugar Company, whose Managing Director, Tejveer Rai, has provided unwavering support.

Kabras has invested in elite coaching, signing South African tactician Carlos Katywa and ensuring a professional structure that fosters player development.

Corporate backing has proven to be key for Kabras.

It has become clear that without support, playing in the Kenya Cup will be difficult.

Former heavyweights Top Fry Nakuru, Western Bulls and Homeboyz RFC are clear examples of struggle.

While Nakuru escaped relegation by a whisker, Bulls and Homeboyz are in the second-tier KRU Championship, where life is even harder for them.

Menengai Oilers, Kabras' Enterprise Cup final opponents, are following a similar trajectory under the sponsorship of Menengai Oil Refineries Limited, led by Onkar Rai.

For the first time in three years, the Enterprise Cup final will feature a different opponent for Kabras Sugar, as they take on Menengai Oilers instead of their usual rivals, KCB.

The clash between the two Rai Group-backed teams adds an extra layer of intrigue, with many viewing it as a battle between Tejveer Rai and his younger brother, Onkar Rai.

"The investment in grassroots rugby and player welfare has paid off. We noticed untapped talent in rural areas, and through structured programs, we've nurtured players into professionals. Our education support program with the players has proven key too," said Tejveer Rai.

Beyond club success, Kabras Sugar and Oilers have been key contributors to Kenya's national rugby teams. Kabras boasts a strong presence in the Kenya Sevens squad, with players like Kevin Wekesa, Brian Tanga, and Jone Kubu becoming household names.

Their contributions to the Kenya Simbas are even more significant, with over ten players making it to the national 15s team, including George Nyambua, Ephraim Oduor, and Emmanuel Otieno.

Menengai Oilers have also played a crucial role, producing players such as John Okoth and Dennis Abukuse for Kenya Sevens.