Kenya has confirmed its men’s and women’s national sevens squads ahead of the opening round of the HSBC SVNS 2, with Shujaa and the Lionesses set to launch their promotion campaigns at Nyayo National Stadium on 14–15 February 2026.
Both teams enter the Nairobi leg targeting a top-four finish across the three-tournament series, a requirement to progress to the SVNS World Championship and remain in contention for elevation to Division 1 under World Rugby’s revised competition structure.
Shujaa head coach Kevin Wambua has opted for continuity, selecting a largely settled squad for the opening leg, with just one new face included.
George ‘Japolo’ Ooro and Samuel Asati continue as joint captains.
Kenya has been drawn into a competitive round-robin pool alongside USA, Germany, Belgium, Uruguay, and Canada.
The men’s competition will begin with USA facing Belgium, followed by Uruguay against Germany, before Shujaa close the opening session with a late-morning clash against Canada at 10:50 am.
After Nairobi, the SVNS 2 series will move to Montevideo, Uruguay (21–22 March) and São Paulo, Brazil (28–29 March), where only four of the six competing nations will advance to the promotion playoffs.
On the women’s side, head coach Simon Odongo has balanced proven performers with emerging talent as the Lionesses prepare for a demanding three-leg campaign.
Marvel Laura Oswago and Charity Nilah are in line to make their international debuts after strong performances on the local circuit, earning selection in a squad built around players who impressed at the Safari 7s and Africa Women’s 7s.
Sheila Chajira will lead the team as captain, with Freshia Oduor appointed vice-captain.
The Lionesses face a challenging schedule against Brazil, China, Argentina, Spain, and South Africa, the latter having edged Kenya in last year’s continental final.
Their campaign begins on Saturday morning against Brazil at 9:44 am, followed by fixtures against China (12:46 pm) and South Africa (3:48 pm).
Sunday’s programme features encounters with Argentina (11:44 am) and Spain (3:56 pm).
Shujaa Squad – HSBC SVNS 2 (Nairobi)
George ‘Japolo’ Ooro, Samuel Asati, John Okoth, Dennis Abukuse, Vincent Onyala, Kevin Wekesa, Patrick Odongo, Festus Shiasi, Nygel Amaitsa, Floyd Wabwire, Chrisant Ojwang’, David Nyangige (debutant)
Kenya Lionesses Squad – HSBC SVNS 2 (Nairobi)
Naomi Amuguni, Moreen Muritu, Sheila Chajira (C), Sinaida Nyachio, Edith Nariaka, Janet Okello, Marvel Oswago (debutant), Freshia Oduor (VC), Charity Nilah (debutant), Grace Okulu, Stella Wafula, and Phoebe Akinyi.
