The 2025 Safari Sevens at Nyayo National Stadium delivered an intense and emotional weekend of rugby, as Kenya’s Shujaa and Lionesses reclaimed continental dominance with hard-fought victories over international opposition. The three-day event featured top teams from Africa, Europe, and beyond, offering the perfect test for Kenya’s men’s and women’s sides ahead of upcoming international assignments.
Shujaa Triumph After Gritty Comeback
Kenya’s Shujaa produced a spirited display throughout the tournament, saving their best for the final day. After cruising through the pool stage with emphatic wins over Walukuba (55–0) and French Renegades (20–0), and edging past UK Select 28–19, they stormed into the knockout rounds with momentum. In the semifinals, Shujaa faced a resilient Zimbabwe side but triumphed 29–19 to set up a final clash with Shogun Rugby.
The final turned into a pulsating affair. Shogun drew first blood, forcing Shujaa to chase the game. But with the crowd roaring them on, the Kenyans showed composure and belief. With scores level at 7–7 late in the match, Floyd Wabwire crossed the line for a decisive try, sealing a 14–7 comeback win and sparking wild celebrations around Nyayo. The victory marked Shujaa’s statement of resurgence as they lifted the Safari Sevens title once again.
Elsewhere, Kenya Morans had a spirited campaign but narrowly missed out on the final after a 14–12 semifinal loss to Shogun. They went on to face Zimbabwe in the bronze playoff after earlier wins against ReUnion, Apache, and UK Select, showing the depth in Kenya’s sevens program.
Lionesses Edge Uganda to Retain Regional Pride
The Kenya Lionesses, equally inspired, reaffirmed their dominance in the women’s category. They began their campaign with a commanding 34–7 win over Tunisia before downing Uganda 17–5 and dispatching Mwamba Select 24–5 in the knockout rounds. The final pitted them once again against their regional rivals, Uganda Lady Cranes, in a tense encounter that lived up to its billing.
After trading early tries, the Lionesses found a breakthrough through strong forward play and disciplined defending, holding on for a 14–10 win that crowned them the 2025 Safari Sevens champions. Costa Blanca Barbarians and Shogun, both impressive throughout the tournament, battled for bronze as the women’s event showcased the growing strength of African and international women’s sevens.
The tournament, however, carried a somber undertone following the sudden passing of Belgium women’s head coach, Warren Abrahams, on Friday, 10th October while on duty with his team in Nairobi. His death cast a shadow over the event, prompting a heartfelt moment of silence before Saturday’s matches. Players wore black armbands in tribute, and officials paid respects to the Belgium women’s team.
