Kenya Sevens, Lionesses squads for Safari 7s

The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has announced the Kenyan squads set to compete in the highly anticipated 2024 Safari Sevens, scheduled for Friday 11 to Sunday 13 October at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.

The tournament, a staple in Africa’s rugby calendar, will see Kenya field four squads, Shujaa, Morans, Lionesses, and Cubs as they look to showcase their homegrown talent.

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Shujaa squad

Notably, Shujaa will be without several key players, including Brian Tanga, John Okoth, Vincent Onyala, Tony Omondi, Kevin Wekesa, and Nygel Amaitsa, all of whom are unavailable for the event.

Despite these absences, the squad is bolstered by the return of seasoned playmaker Daniel Taabu. Also joining the ranks are Philip Okeyo and Felix Okoth from Nakuru RFC, while Jackson Siketi has been shifted to the Morans.

William Mwanji and Brian Mutua, both integral to Shujaa’s resurgence in the HSBC Challenger Series last season, have been named in the squad.

The lineup also includes National Sevens Circuit top scorer Dennis Abukuse, playmaker Benson Salem, speedster Brian Mutugi, and promising talent Gabriel Ayimba. Key figures George Ooro, Samuel Asati, and Patrick Odongo will retain their positions as they look to make a mark on home soil.

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The Union also confirmed four additional teams for this year’s Safari Sevens, including Lions Rugby, Red Wailers, and National Sevens Circuit champions Kenya Harlequin. A select team from Kenyan universities will also compete.

These teams join other confirmed participants, such as the Uganda Cranes, Shogun Rugby (formerly Samurai), and Zimbabwe, in what promises to be a thrilling competition.

Lionesses squad

The Kenya Lionesses squad has also been announced, aiming to reclaim the title after falling short in the 2023 edition against Uganda.

Key names missing from the lineup are Christable Lindo, Grace Okullo, Judith Okumu, and Stella Wafula, who are currently engaged in assignments with the Serengeti Elephants in the USA. The team will rely on experienced players Sheila Chajira, Terry Ayesa, and Diana Kemunto to lead the charge.

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The squad is further strengthened by Sinaida Mokaya and Freshia Oduor, who recently impressed in the test match against Madagascar with the Lionesses 15s side.

Other selected players include Edith Nariaka, Moreen Muritu, Diana Awino, Lovinah Mijere, Faith Livoi, Ann Njeri, and Yvette Okatch.

Competing in the Women’s Category alongside the Kenya Lionesses are the Kenya Cubs, Uganda Lady Cranes, Costa Blanca Barbarians, and Shogun, who will be fielding their first-ever women’s team. The Kenya Lionesses will be looking to assert their dominance and bring the Safari 7s title back home.

Lionesses:

Sheila Chajira Terry Ayesa Diana Kemunto Sinaida Mokaya Edith Nariaka Moreen Muritu Freshia Oduor Lovinah Mijere Diana Awino Faith Livoi Ann Njeri Yvette Okatch

Cubs:

Linet Moraaa Enid Ouma Naomi Jelegat Mitchelle Alivitsa Sherryl Owaga Hellen Achieng’ Carol Nyanchoka Atieno Awuor Maxine Abuga Catherine Elizabeth Milka Chitechi Sharon Auma

Shujaa:

1. George Ooro (cc) 2. Brian Mutua 3. Felix Okoth 4. William Mwanji 5. Dennis Abukuse 6. Samuel Asati (cc) 7. Benson Salem 8. Philip Okeyo 9. Gabriel Ayimba 10. Brian Mutugi 11. Patrick Odongo 12. Daniel Taabu

Morans:

Elvis Olukusi, Augustine Owino, Patrick Lumumba, David Williams, Leonard Fogang, Harmony Wamalwa, Brian Ondego, Jackson Siketi, Festus Shiasi, Floyd Wabwire, Arnold Agonda, Mike Wekesa