President Ruto leads Kenyans in lauding Shujaa after reclaiming World 7s Series core status

Kenya’s President Dr William Ruto led the nation in showering praises on Kenya 7s national team; Shujaa for reclaiming a spot in the World Rugby 7s Series.

The resilient Kenya 7s outshone Germany 33-15 in the crucial HSBC 7s promotion qualifier to secure a direct slot in the series. They returned to the Series after being relegated last year, following close to 20 years in the prestigious series.

In his congratulatory message, the President noted that the country was looking forward to cheering the boys on the global stage next season.

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Indeed, since Kenya was relegated from the HSBC World Rugby 7s series, there has been a noticeable decline in interest among Kenyan fans. Shujaa’s absence led to diminished local engagement and enthusiasm for the series.

“Well done boys! Congratulations on bouncing back into the World Sevens Series 2025. Kenyans look forward to cheering you on next season. Pongezi Shujaa. You are a core team! #HSBCSVNS 2025,” Ruto said in a statement.

His sentiments were echoed by Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ababu Namwamba who lauded the young players for taking Kenya back to the global table.

The CS noted that the victory would spark the expansion of the sport at all levels and give the country great pride and happiness.

“Back where Kenya belongs: The High Table of World Rugby 7s. This victory means so much for Kenyan rugby, the growth of our sports generally and the global branding of Magical Kenya. Super proud of our Shujaa,” the CS offered.

Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Chairman Sasha Mutai also joined in the celebrations, praising the team for the job well done. He was further delighted that the comeback happened under his regime, a milestone in his leadership.

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“We are back to where we belong. Back like we never left. The dance is fully back. Congratulations to the boys for making the whole country proud,” Mutai averred.

Several coaches also gave Shujaa their flowers, noting that the dream finally came true.

Leading the pack was former Shujaa coach Paul Murunga who underscored the importance of Kenya competing on that global stage once again.

Murunga was the assistant coach in 2016, and together with Benjamin Ayimba, they led Kenya to secure their maiden glory in Singapore. He was confident that the squad would live up to the billing in the coming World Rugby 7s Series.

“They made the country proud. The world is happy. Congratulations Shujaa. The squad is great and they can achieve more in the future. I wish them the best of luck. You can do this Shujaa,” Murunga offered.

Former Kisumu RFC coach Lawi Buyachi also extended his heartfelt congratulations, noting that it is the biggest triumph for the Kenyans this year.

“They played their hearts out. Despite their opponents striking first, they came back to win the game. It is a show of determination, zeal, and dedication. Congratulations boys. This is just a piece of what you can do. More to come,” Buyachi said.

Koyonzo High School Director of Rugby Oscar Okaron noted that it was a new beginning for the rugby team.

“Congratulations Shujaa. You went, you saw, and you conquered. Well deserved. The win will motivate the next generation of rugby stars,” he offered.

With the triumph now behind them, Shujaa will set their sights on the upcoming Olympics games slated for Paris, France from Friday 26 July to August 11, 2024.