The government has injected Sh100 million into preparations for the World Rugby Sevens Division Two tournament, setting the stage for a high-stakes, two-day showdown at Nyayo Stadium this weekend.
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi confirmed the disbursement to the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), saying the funds will bolster final preparations as the country hosts one of the biggest rugby events on its calendar.
“As the government, we have done our part and disbursed the funding for this tournament, and all preparations for the event are almost complete,” Mwangi said.
The government’s support comes on top of corporate sponsorship worth Sh82 million. SportPesa and Tusker have each committed Sh40 million, while Crown Paints has contributed Sh2 million.
Last month, KRU chairperson Harriet Okach revealed the union required approximately Sh200 million to successfully stage the tournament, covering security, logistics, training venues and other operational costs for the 12 participating teams.
Mwangi termed the event historic and expressed confidence that Kenya could soon graduate to hosting the elite World Sevens Division One Series, which features global heavyweights such as New Zealand, South Africa and Fiji.
“This is a momentous occasion for the country to host this event and for our teams, Shujaa and the Kenya Lionesses, to showcase their talent not only as hosts but as strong competitors,” he said.
“Outside South Africa, no other country has been given this opportunity to host a tournament of this magnitude. I would like to thank World Rugby for giving us this chance to stage such a big event.”
The PS added that the government is intentionally investing in world-class sports infrastructure to position Kenya as a preferred destination for major global events.
“We are very deliberate and intentional in building world-class infrastructure to aid our preparation in hosting tournaments of this scale,” Mwangi noted. Security agencies have also rolled out elaborate plans ahead of the expected large turnout.
Nairobi Traffic Area representative Silas Bundi announced that Aerodrome Road will be fully closed to motorists during the event, while Mombasa Road and Lang’ata Road will experience partial closures. Assistant Inspector General Edward Achola assured fans that the National Police Service is fully prepared.
“NPS are all hands on deck to ensure the safety and smooth running of the two-day competition,” Achola said, urging those without tickets to stay away from the venue to avoid unnecessary confrontation with security officers.
With government backing secured, sponsors on board and logistics nearly complete, Nyayo Stadium is primed for a thrilling weekend of world-class sevens action.
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