2025 Safari 7s receives huge Tusker boost, KRU Promises Unprecedented Experience

By Peter Bishop

The 2025 Safari 7s has received a huge boost after Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), under its  beer brand Tusker, announced a sponsorship package worth KSh 22 million during a colorful launch at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi.

Of the sponsorship, KSh 12 million will be in cash while KSh 10 million will be in kind, with the in-kind support set to fund the creation of the Tusker After Party Village, a unique fan zone that promises rugby fans both top-class sporting action and ultimate entertainment throughout the three-day festival.

20 Teams Set for the 27th Edition

Tournament Director Kevin Wambura revealed that this year’s event — the 27th edition — will feature 20 teams. The men’s category will host 12 sides divided into three pools, while the women’s competition will feature eight teams split into two pools.

The action will begin on Friday, October 10, with the first round of matches at RFUEA Grounds, before the return of the much-loved veterans’ category under floodlights at Nyayo Stadium later that evening. Saturday will showcase the second and third rounds, while Sunday will close with the knockout stages, semi-finals, and the finals.

Tusker’s Longstanding Commitment

Speaking during the launch, Christine Kariuki, Head of KBL Mainstream Beer, expressed the brand’s pride in supporting Safari7s once again.“It is both an honor and a pleasure for us at Tusker to once again be part of the Safari7s. We have watched the game grow over the years and we take pride in contributing to that growth,” she said.

Kariuki emphasized that Tusker’s commitment goes beyond financial support:“Supporting local rugby is in good consideration with KBL, and we plan to continue doing so in partnership with the KRU.”

She further reflected on Tusker’s historic association with the tournament, which dates back to the 1990s, noting that the brand has been instrumental in rugby’s growth in Kenya.

Players’ Perspective

On the players’ part, Shujaa captain Samuel Asati was upbeat about the team’s preparation and the inclusion of fresh talent.“The team is well prepared, and training with the new players from the Morans has been positive. They were selected on merit, each bringing a unique ‘X’ factor. Our target remains to qualify for Division One, which means we have to dominate Division Two — and Safari 7s is the perfect preparation for that,” Asati explained.

The men’s side will use the tournament as a springboard to sharpen their form ahead of a crucial international season where qualification to Division One remains the primary objective.

Meanwhile, Lionesses captain Sheila Chajira said the women’s team remains focused and resilient despite setbacks.“The fire is still there with the girls, and our goal remains to qualify for the HSBC Series, despite the unfortunate events by World Rugby last time where things happened. We are motivated to fight even harder, like the lionesses we are.” she affirmed.

Call to Fans

Kenya Rugby Union Vice Chairman Moses Ndale thanked Tusker for its renewed support, saying sponsorships of this magnitude are vital to sustaining and growing rugby in the country.“We truly appreciate Tusker’s commitment. Since their inception up to date, their partnership has taken things to the next level. Despite that, we are still pushing them and I believe one day this competition will be called ‘The Tusker Safari 7s’” Ndale said lightly.

The Vice Chairman called on fans to show up in large numbers and carry their families with them.  “And my request to the fans is let’s make it an experience like never before. We are going to have a kids fan, so please come with your kids especially because I want to see them enjoy this game.  We are going to have a serious sherehe too, so come and enjoy.” Ndale urged.

With the Tusker After Party Village promising unmatched fan experiences, and both Shujaa and the Lionesses determined to make their mark, this year’s Safari7s is set to deliver not only thrilling rugby but also a festival atmosphere befitting its reputation as Africa’s premier sevens tournament.