Reigning champions Shujaa are gearing up to defend their Safari Sevens crown as they enter the 2024 edition of the tournament, eager to complete a treble after back-to-back victories in 2021 and 2023. This year’s edition promises to be highly competitive, with Kenya fielding four teams—Shujaa, Morans, Lionesses, and Cubs—to showcase homegrown talent at the iconic RFUEA Grounds.
Shujaa, who triumphed in the 2023 final with a commanding 19-0 win over Samurai Sevens, enter the tournament as the top seeds. They have been drawn into Group A alongside Zimbabwe, Lions Rugby, Qatar Rugby, and the Kenya Varsity Select team. Despite some key player absences, Shujaa are determined to maintain their winning streak on home soil.
Key Absences and Reinforcements
Shujaa will be without a number of their top performers, including Brian Tanga, John Okoth, Vincent Onyala, Tony Omondi, Kevin Wekesa, and Nygel Amaitsa, all unavailable for the tournament. This leaves the squad relying on a mix of experienced players and fresh talent to step up in their absence.
Seasoned playmaker Daniel Taabu, who missed out on recent competitions, returns to the fold to provide much-needed creativity and leadership. Alongside him, Nakuru RFC’s Philip Okeyo and Felix Okoth have been called up to strengthen the squad. Jackson Siketi, a familiar face, has been shifted to the Morans for this year’s tournament.
William Mwanji and Brian Mutua, both instrumental in Shujaa’s resurgence during last season’s HSBC Challenger Series, will look to bring their form into the Safari Sevens. National Sevens Circuit top scorer Dennis Abukuse, playmaker Benson Salem, speedster Brian Mutugi, and rising star Gabriel Ayimba round out a formidable lineup. Key players George Ooro, Samuel Asati, and Patrick Odongo will also be crucial to Shujaa’s campaign, as they seek to retain their title on home ground.
Morans and Lionesses in Action
Kenya’s second team, Morans, has been placed in Group B, where they will face stiff competition from Uganda, 2023 third-place finishers, National Sevens Circuit champions Kenya Harlequin, and invitational sides Shogun Rugby and Red Wailers. Morans will be eager to make a strong impression in this tough group, with Siketi providing added depth to their squad.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Lionesses will be out for redemption in the ladies’ competition, which will follow a round-robin format. Having finished runners-up to Uganda in the 2023 edition, the Lionesses are determined to reclaim the title. However, they will be without key players Christabel Lindo, Grace Okullo, Judith Okumu, and Stella Wafula, all of whom are currently engaged in assignments with the Serengeti Elephants in the USA.
Despite these absences, the Lionesses will look to experienced campaigners Sheila Chajira, Terry Ayesa, and Diana Kemunto to lead the charge. The squad is further bolstered by Sinaida Mokaya and Freshia Oduor, who impressed in their recent test match against Madagascar with the Lionesses 15s side. Other notable players include Edith Nariaka, Moreen Muritu, and Yvette Okatch, as the Lionesses aim to put on a dominant display.
Strong Competition Awaits
Shujaa will face stiff opposition from the likes of Zimbabwe and Qatar Rugby, both hungry for success. Lions Rugby and Kenya Varsity Select also promise to pose significant challenges as Shujaa seeks to defend their title.
With Shujaa looking to secure a third consecutive Safari Sevens crown and the Kenya Lionesses aiming to bounce back, the 2024 tournament promises high-octane action and thrilling rugby from start to finish. Kenyan rugby fans will be hoping their homegrown stars shine bright on the international stage once again.
