The Kenyan government celebrated the national men’s rugby 7s team Shujaa with a hefty cash prize for their efforts that led to Kenya regaining its core status in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

The Ministry of Sports gifted the team a cheque worth Ksh. 5,700,000 million, which included the coaches and staff.

Speaking at a celebratory dinner, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba assured the team and the country of the government’s investment towards a robust transition pipeline to maintain Shujaa’s core status.

“The success of these teams is a result of great effort behind the scenes. I stand here proud and grateful for everyone’s input.

“I cannot thank enough the fans who travelled around the challenger series to support the team.

“We will provide structured development and continuous support to the players to ensure a steady flow of well-conditioned and experienced players ready to step up and maintain the competitive edge of the national teams.

“We want to avoid a situation where if our best players retire, a void is left in the team’s roster.” Said CS Namwamba.

Now focus shifts for Coach Kevin Wambua’s chargers to the Olympics. During preparations for the HSBC playoffs, the team camped in Miramas, France.

The Cabinet Secretary noted that the team will camp at the same venue as they prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympics, which is 49 days away.

“For the first time, the teams will have a home in Miramas before and during the Olympics to help them perform at their best. We want the best out of these teams, and we are constantly igniting the fire in their hearts to perform.” Stated the CS Namwamba.

Kenya’s rugby sevens men’s team, Shujaa, reclaimed their place in the World Rugby Sevens Series after beating Germany 33-15 in their promotion playoff match played on Sunday 2nd June 2024 in Madrid, Spain.

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