Kenya Shujaa Held to Draw as Safari 7s Gets Underway in Nairobi

NAIROBI, Kenya — Defending champions Kenya Shujaa began their title defence at the 2026 Safari 7s with a 21–21 draw against South African invitational side SportPesa Fast Forwards at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday.

The opening-day result gave the hosts an early challenge in their bid to retain the title at the 28th edition of the tournament, which runs from October 9 to 11 and features 18 teams across the men’s and women’s competitions.

Shujaa struggled early in their opening match, allowing the South African side to establish a 14–0 lead through converted tries by Austin Prins and Leizaan Botto.

Kenya responded before half-time when Nygel Amaitsa crossed the line and added the conversion, reducing the deficit.

SportPesa Fast Forwards extended their advantage after the break through Curthy Handrikse, but Shujaa fought back. Substitute Glacious Owino scored to bring Kenya closer before Elvis Olukusi crossed for the equalising try, with Owino converting to level the scores.

Despite late pressure from the home side, neither team managed to find a decisive score, leaving the match tied.

Elsewhere in Pool A, Scotland began their Safari 7s campaign with a 17–14 victory over Uganda. Kenya Morans also recorded a strong start, beating GEL Squad 7s 38–17, while Shogun Rugby defeated Southern California Nomads 38–0.

Shujaa were scheduled to face Scotland and Uganda on Saturday as the pool stage continued. Those matches would be important in determining the defending champions’ progress towards the knockout rounds.

The tournament provides a major platform for Kenyan rugby, bringing together national teams, invitational sides and developing players in one of the region’s established sevens competitions.