Kenya’s national men’s rugby sevens team, Shujaa, have been crowned 2026 Africa Men’s Sevens Series champions after securing a thrilling 15–12 victory over Madagascar in the final played in Mauritius.

Shujaa had to produce a strong comeback after Madagascar dominated their pool-stage encounter, securing a convincing 26–0 victory over Kenya.

However, the defeat did not prevent Kenya from progressing and eventually reaching the final.

In the semi-final, Shujaa produced an impressive performance to defeat South Africa 15–0, earning a place in the final and setting up another meeting with Madagascar in the title decider.

The final was fiercely contested from start to finish. Madagascar scored first, but Kenya responded through Rayvone Ambale, who scored a try and conversion, before Gabriel Ayimba added another try.

Madagascar refused to give up and continued to put pressure on Kenya, eventually drawing level at 12–12. In the closing stages, Kenya earned a crucial opportunity, with Glacious Nganya Owino converting a penalty to give Shujaa a dramatic 15–12 victory.

For Shujaa, the championship provides a major boost ahead of upcoming international competitions and further underlines Kenya’s status as one of Africa’s leading rugby sevens nations.

The victory also demonstrated the team’s ability to respond under pressure and recover strongly after a disappointing result in the pool stage.

Shujaa leave Mauritius as African champions, carrying renewed confidence as they prepare for their upcoming international rugby challenges.