Kenya’s national rugby sevens teams, the Lionesses and Shujaa, are preparing for crucial outings in the upcoming second and third rounds of the HSBC SVNS 2 series, with their sights firmly set on promotion to the top-tier HSBC SVNS 1 next season.
The next legs of the competition will be held in Montevideo, Uruguay on March 21–22, before the action shifts to São Paulo, Brazil on March 28–29. The tournaments present a key opportunity for both teams to build on their performances from the opening round staged in Nairobi.
The Kenya Lionesses have named a 13-player squad that sees the return of Faith Livoi and Christabel Lindo, who missed the Nairobi leg. They join captain Sheila Chajira alongside Naomi Amuguni, Charity Nillah, Stellah Wafula, Edith Nariaka, Judith Auma, Sinaida Mokaya, Moreen Muritu, Janet Okello, Freshia Oduor, and Marvel Oswago.
Speaking ahead of the fixtures, captain Sheila Chajira expressed confidence in the team’s preparations and ambitions. She noted that the squad is focused on winning matches in both tournaments to secure qualification for Division One, while also appreciating the strong support received from fans during the Nairobi leg.
On the men’s side, Shujaa have unveiled a 14-man squad featuring experienced players such as George Ooro, Samuel Asati, Vincent Onyala, Kevin Wekesa, Nygel Amaitsa, Dennis Abukuse, John Okoth, Kevin Wambua, and Patrick Odongo. The squad also welcomes the return of Brian Tanga from a long injury layoff, while Gabriel Ayimba earns his maiden call-up to the national sevens team. Other players named include Chrisant Ojwang, Festus Shiasi, Floyd Wabwire, and David Nyangige.
In the opening round held at Nyayo National Stadium, Shujaa secured a third-place finish behind the United States and Germany, while the Lionesses placed fifth—results that have set the stage for a competitive push in the remaining rounds.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa lauded both teams for their resilience and performance, noting that their discipline and fighting spirit continue to define Kenyan rugby on the global stage. He reaffirmed the company’s support through M-PESA, which partners with the Kenya Rugby Union to provide players with financial stability and resources that allow them to focus fully on their game.
Through the two-year partnership, M-PESA offers monthly allowances, comprehensive medical insurance, airtime, and financial literacy programmes to both squads, reinforcing their preparation both on and off the pitch.
The HSBC SVNS 2 series forms part of the global HSBC SVNS circuit, showcasing fast-paced, high-intensity rugby sevens competition and offering teams a pathway to elite-level status.
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