Murkomen reiterates stand on making Safari Sevens a premier competition

Murkomen reiterates stand on making Safari Sevens a premier competition

Evans Ousuru 09:59 - 14.10.2024

Shujaa retained their Safari Sevens title after beating Shogun 12-0 in the final and Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen is keen to ensure the tournament does not lose its prestige.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has promised to maintain the Safari Sevens status as a premier competition following Shujaa's victory at this year's edition held at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.

The Patrick Odongo-inspired Shuja performance saw Kenya retain the title with a 12-0 scoreline against Shogun to be crowned the 2024 champions, in the event that was held for the first time outside Nairobi in the competition's 26-year history.

Kevin Wambua's charges were returning to the competitive action two months after their participation at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Murkomen said the government will collaborate with stakeholders to grow the sport and nurture more talent to make Kenya a rugby powerhouse.

"Shujaa's incredible 12-0 victory against Shogun of England in the thrilling final of the 26th edition of the Safari Sevens reinforces Kenya’s position as a rugby powerhouse. We shall work with stakeholders to grow more talent in the sport and ensure that Safari Sevens remains a premier event in Kenya’s sporting calendar," Murkomen revealed via his X account, formerly Twitter.

This year’s Safari Sevens featured 10 teams in the men's category, including Shujaa (Kenya), Kenya Morans, Shogun Rugby (formerly Samurai), Zimbabwe, Uganda, Kenya Harlequins (2024 Sevens Circuit champions), Kenya Varsity Select, Qatar, Lions Rugby, and Red Wailers.