Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has congratulated Kenya’s national men’s sevens rugby team, Shujaa, following their qualification for the HSBC SVNS World Championship after finishing second at the final leg of the 2026 HSBC SVNS 2 series in São Paulo, Brazil last weekend.
Mvurya praised the squad’s achievement after they secured a place in the elite global championship series during the tournament held between March 28 and 29 at Estadio Nicolau Alayon, describing the result as a major milestone for Kenyan rugby on the international stage.
“Congratulations to the Kenya Shujaa for a remarkable performance and a well-earned advancement to the World Championship.
“Securing 2nd place is no mean feat, it is a powerful testament to your determination, resilience, and pursuit of excellence,” he stated.
Shujaa finished runners-up in São Paulo after winning four of their five matches, with their only defeat coming in a narrow 14-12 loss to Belgium, a result that ultimately decided the leg title through head-to-head ranking despite both teams ending level on 13 points.
The Kenyan side opened their campaign with dominant victories over Germany and Canada to secure early qualification for the World Championship series before beating USA 31-14 and closing their fixtures with a 24-14 win against Uruguay.
Across the three-leg SVNS 2 season, Kevin Wambua’s charges registered consistent podium finishes third in Nairobi, third in Montevideo and second in São Paulo accumulating 50 points overall to finish second behind USA, who topped the standings with 52 points.
Their qualification means Shujaa will now compete in the three-event World Championship series alongside USA, Germany and Uruguay, joining eight core teams from Division One in tournaments scheduled for Hong Kong, Valladolid and Bordeaux.
Mvurya said the team’s performances continue to enhance Kenya’s global rugby reputation, adding, “Your performance on the global stage continues to elevate Kenya’s standing in international rugby. You have flown the Kenyan flag high with pride and distinction.”
The Cabinet Secretary also acknowledged the women’s national side after the Kenya Lionesses narrowly missed qualification, encouraging them despite finishing fifth overall following a 24-12 defeat to Brazil in their final match.
“To the Lionesses, you poured your hearts out and showcased your finesse to the world with courage, skill and unwavering determination. Your performance is a true reflection of resilience and the fighting Kenyan spirit,” Mvurya said.
The upcoming World Championship series will determine the overall world champions, with the top eight teams earning promotion to the 2026/27 HSBC SVNS Division One while the bottom four sides drop to Division Two.
